Antigua and Barbuda Diplomats Gather for Annual Ambassadors’ Meeting Following CHOGM 2026

Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomatic representatives gathered on Friday for the 2026 Diplomatic Encounter and Annual Ambassadors’ Meeting, bringing together the country’s ambassadors and senior diplomatic officials to reflect on national foreign policy priorities and strengthen coordination across its international diplomatic network.

Held at the Sir John E. St. Luce Finance and Conference Centre, the event took place just days after Antigua and Barbuda successfully hosted the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2026), marking another significant occasion for the country’s diplomatic community.

The opening ceremony, which was also attended by members of the foreign diplomatic corps accredited to Antigua and Barbuda, attracted a large gathering of diplomats and invited guests.

Proceedings began with the National Anthem of Antigua and Barbuda, followed by a prayer and welcoming remarks.

The Honourable E. P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration, delivered the opening address, during which he reflected on the successful hosting of CHOGM 2026 and paid tribute to the many individuals and institutions whose dedication and hard work contributed to the event’s success.

The Minister expressed his appreciation for the collective efforts of government officials, diplomatic representatives, organisers and all those involved in delivering an event of such international importance. His remarks were warmly received by the audience.

Minister Greene also outlined key priorities guiding Antigua and Barbuda’s foreign policy, highlighting the importance of strengthening relations within the Commonwealth, promoting regional economic cooperation and expanding opportunities for trade and international partnerships.

He encouraged the country’s diplomatic representatives to continue working collectively to advance Antigua and Barbuda’s interests abroad and to reinforce its presence and influence on the international stage.

Following a musical performance, the gathering was addressed by the Honourable Alva Baptiste, Minister for External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation and Diaspora Affairs of Saint Lucia, who delivered the feature address.

In a compelling and warmly received speech, Minister Baptiste reflected on the important role of diplomacy in advancing the interests of small island developing states within an increasingly complex international environment.

He emphasised the need for Caribbean nations to remain confident, determined and proactive in representing their interests, particularly when addressing challenges that require engagement with larger and more influential international partners.

His remarks highlighted the importance of perseverance, regional solidarity and the responsibility of small states to actively shape their own futures through sustained diplomatic engagement.

Minister Baptiste encouraged diplomatic representatives to remain steadfast in pursuing their countries’ objectives, stressing that meaningful progress depends on the willingness of nations to advocate consistently for their priorities and aspirations.

His address drew enthusiastic applause from those in attendance.

The ceremony reflected the broader theme of this year’s gathering, “Sovereign Resilience and Global Reform: Small State, Global Stakes – Diplomacy for Justice and Influence,” underscoring the importance of effective diplomacy in ensuring that the voices and interests of smaller nations continue to be heard in international affairs.

Following the formal proceedings, participants gathered for an official group photograph before a coffee break provided an opportunity for informal exchanges among members of the diplomatic community.

The programme then continued with the internal sessions of the Annual Ambassadors’ Meeting, held behind closed doors, allowing Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomatic representatives to engage in discussions on their respective portfolios and the country’s foreign policy priorities.

Coming immediately after the successful hosting of CHOGM 2026, the gathering provided a timely opportunity to reaffirm the importance of diplomatic cooperation, coordinated international engagement and Antigua and Barbuda’s continued commitment to maintaining an active and constructive role in regional and global affairs.