Antigua and Barbuda continues to strengthen its international partnerships as preparations advance for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026, which will be hosted in St. John’s from 1–4 November 2026. A recent bilateral meeting between senior officials from Antigua and Barbuda and Malta highlighted the growing collaboration between the two Commonwealth nations.
The Honourable E. P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda, met with Dr. Ian Borg, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism of the Republic of Malta. The discussions took place on the margins of the Commonwealth Foreign Ministers Meeting in London, where global leaders gathered ahead of Commonwealth Day events.
Strengthening Cooperation for CHOGM 2026
During their meeting, Minister Greene and Deputy Prime Minister Borg explored ways Malta could support Antigua and Barbuda’s preparations for CHOGM 2026. As the host nation, Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to welcome thousands of delegates from across the Commonwealth, making collaboration with international partners an important component of the event’s success.
One area of potential cooperation discussed was technical support for the Commonwealth Youth Forum, a key platform held alongside CHOGM. The Youth Forum brings together young leaders from across the Commonwealth to discuss policy priorities, share perspectives, and help shape the future direction of the organisation.
Minister Greene emphasized the importance of strong youth participation and effective technical execution for the forum, noting that the engagement of young leaders remains central to the Commonwealth’s long-term relevance and impact.
Malta Expresses Support for Antigua and Barbuda’s Leadership
Deputy Prime Minister Borg welcomed Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership in hosting CHOGM 2026 and indicated Malta’s willingness to assist where possible. Both officials expressed confidence that the upcoming meeting will be a significant and impactful gathering for the Commonwealth family.
Their discussions also reaffirmed the strong and cordial relations between Antigua and Barbuda and Malta, particularly through their shared engagement within the Commonwealth framework.
Delegation in Attendance
Minister Greene was accompanied at the meeting by Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner at the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission in London, and Ms. Chantal Phillip, Minister Counsellor.
Looking Ahead
As CHOGM 2026 approaches, Antigua and Barbuda continues to engage with international partners to ensure the success of the historic event. With delegates from 56 Commonwealth member states expected to participate, the meeting will provide an important platform for dialogue, cooperation, and collective action on global challenges.
The bilateral discussions with Malta underscore Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to building partnerships that support both the logistical preparation and the broader goals of the Commonwealth community.
