Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the Organization of American States (OAS) ‘s decision to select Antigua and Barbuda as the host for its 55th General Assembly in June 2025 signifies the country’s increasing significance on the global stage.

He mentioned that the bid was accepted by acclamation at the conclusion of the OAS 54th General Assembly in Asuncion, Paraguay, and highlighted the country’s international standing following a successful SIDS conference.

“Our Ambassador to the OAS, Sir Ron Sanders, has been and continues to be a very influential, respected, and consistent contributor to the work of the OAS. Our people should be proud of the contribution and significant impact of Antigua and Barbuda on regional, hemispheric and international affairs,” PM Browne stated on Sunday

Colombia also made a bid to host the General Assembly but withdrew its offer, paving the way for the acceptance of the Antigua and Barbuda bid.

This means that Antigua and Barbuda will host a major international conference for the second consecutive year, following the successful hosting of the Fourth International Conference of Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) held from May 27 to 30 this year.

The country now boasts of a conference center that meets all the requirements for hosting a major international gathering such as the OAS General Assembly.

The American University of Antigua (AUA), where the SIDS4 conference was held, has built an ultramodern conference centre with many ancillary facilities that serve as a perfect venue for the conference.

The OAS 55th General Assembly is expected to also take place at AUA next year.

In his letter making the offer for the hosting of the conference, Sir Ronald stated;

The formation of a national committee is imminent to kickstart the meticulous planning for the upcoming conference.

Drawing from the effective involvement of volunteers for the SIDS4 conference, it is anticipated that a similar call will be made to enlist individuals to contribute as volunteers.

Similar to the approach for SIDS4, orchestrating the successful hosting of the OAS 55th General Assembly will necessitate a concerted national endeavor.