Antigua and Barbuda is seeking to deepen its relationship with Spain as part of an ambitious national strategy to make Spanish the country’s second language and better position its citizens for opportunities in tourism, trade, education and international business.
The initiative was discussed during Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting following an update from Prime Minister Gaston Browne on recent talks with Spain’s Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, who is based in Jamaica, regarding enhanced bilateral cooperation.
According to Cabinet, the discussions centered on Spain’s willingness to provide technical assistance and educational support as the Government advances plans to expand Spanish language instruction across the country.
Officials said the move forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s engagement with Latin America while equipping citizens with skills that will improve their competitiveness in an increasingly interconnected regional and global economy.
Among the areas identified for cooperation are the provision of Spanish lecturers, teaching resources, educational software, teacher training programmes and short-term language courses tailored to the needs of different sectors.
Particular emphasis is expected to be placed on professionals working in tourism and hospitality, airport and seaport operations, customs, security services and other industries where interaction with Spanish-speaking visitors and business partners continues to grow.
Cabinet was also informed that discussions included the possible establishment of a Spanish language and cultural institute in Antigua and Barbuda. Such a facility would serve as a centre for language instruction, cultural exchange and educational collaboration while strengthening ties between the two countries.
The proposed institute could provide structured language programmes for students, professionals and members of the wider public, while also hosting cultural activities designed to foster greater understanding of the Spanish-speaking world.
Additional proposals under consideration include student exchange programmes, opportunities for Antiguan and Barbudan teachers to travel to Spain to teach English, and scholarships aimed at building national capacity in language education and related fields.
The Government also intends to explore similar partnerships with other Spanish-speaking countries throughout Latin America as part of a wider effort to improve Spanish language proficiency nationwide.
Cabinet highlighted that several senior government officials already demonstrate the value of multilingualism through their fluency in Spanish, noting that Minister of Foreign Affairs E.P. Chet Greene, Cabinet Secretary Konata Lee, Minister Maria Browne and Minister Dwayne George are among those capable of conducting official business in the language.
Officials believe expanding these skills throughout the public service and private sector will strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomatic engagement while creating new opportunities for economic growth and regional integration.
Spanish is the second most spoken native language in the world by number of speakers and is the official language in more than 20 countries, including many of Antigua and Barbuda’s key neighbours in Latin America and the Caribbean. Increased language proficiency is expected to enhance communication with visitors and investors while supporting the country’s growing tourism industry.
Cabinet welcomed the outcome of the discussions with Spain and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to providing future generations with the linguistic skills necessary to thrive in a competitive global marketplace.
The administration believes that strengthening Spanish language education will not only expand employment opportunities for citizens but also deepen Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural, educational and economic ties with the wider Spanish-speaking world.
