The Government of Antigua and Barbuda officially launched preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) at a vibrant ceremony at the Sandals Grande Resort on Tuesday. The event featured addresses by the Honourable Prime Minister Gaston Browne and the Honourable Shirley Botchwey, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.
Prime Minister Browne expressed national pride in hosting the gathering:
“All of Antigua and Barbuda is proud that our tiny island nation will, one year from today, welcome the Commonwealth family to our shores for the 28th Heads of Government Meeting.”
He underscored the significance of the meeting, drawing inspiration from local and Commonwealth icons:
“Just as Sir Vivian Richards inspired generations of cricketers across the Commonwealth, Antigua and Barbuda will inspire the family of nations toward a new era of cooperation and shared prosperity.”
Prime Minister Browne reaffirmed his government’s commitment to resilient economic growth and global engagement:“Our country’s economy is among the fastest-growing in the Caribbean, yet our progress owes little to the global financial system and even less to the global effort to curb climate change. Real progress happens when we work together… Our goal is resilient prosperity for all 2.7 billion citizens of the Commonwealth.”
He also highlighted inclusion and equity as central to Antigua and Barbuda’s approach:
“In our Antigua and Barbuda, we wanted no one to be unseen, no one to be unheard, no one to be unprotected, and no one to be left behind.”
Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey reflected on the global importance of CHOGM 2026, noting its role in shaping a united, forward-looking Commonwealth:
“As we launch the road to the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, we begin a journey that will carry us to one of the most important gatherings in our Commonwealth’s modern history. This summit will not merely discuss challenges—it will shape our shared future.”
She highlighted key priorities for the upcoming meeting, including democracy, trade and investment, climate action, and inclusive opportunity:
“The road to CHOGM will focus on high-impact investments, building deeper trade partnerships, mobilizing climate finance, advancing renewable energy, and expanding opportunity for women, youth, and communities everywhere.”
Botchwey emphasized Antigua and Barbuda’s pivotal role as host:
“We could have no better host for that vision than this extraordinary country, a small island state with a large spirit, a champion of climate resilience and sustainable development, and a steadfast voice for fairness, dignity, and global partnership.”
The launch marked the beginning of a comprehensive national mobilisation, with the Government pledging active involvement from public, private, and community sectors to ensure a CHOGM that delivers both inspiration and tangible outcomes.
Prime Minister Browne concluded:
“This is our opportunity to showcase the very best of Antigua and Barbuda and, through unity and partnership, advance a Commonwealth of practical cooperation, resilience, and shared prosperity.”
