15 September 2026
London, United Kingdom – Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, The Rt. Honourable Gaston Browne, met with Commonwealth Secretary-General Honourable Shirley Botchwey and senior members of the Commonwealth Secretariat’s technical team to discuss preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
The meeting provided an opportunity for Prime Minister Browne to receive an update on the extensive work being undertaken jointly by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Commonwealth Secretariat ahead of the 1st to 4th November meeting.
Discussions covered key operational and programme areas, including arrangements for Heads of Government and delegations, venues, accreditation, security, transport, the Commonwealth Forums and other official and associated events forming part of CHOGM Week.
Prime Minister Browne welcomed the progress achieved to date and reiterated his Government’s commitment to delivering a successful and memorable CHOGM that reflects both the values of the Commonwealth and the warmth and hospitality of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation to Secretary-General Botchwey and the Commonwealth Secretariat for their continued partnership and technical support throughout the planning process.
“We deeply appreciate the support of the Secretary-General and her team. The hosting of CHOGM is a major undertaking for Antigua and Barbuda, and the close collaboration between our national teams and the Commonwealth Secretariat has been invaluable as we move into the final stages of preparation,” Prime Minister Browne said.
He noted that Antigua and Barbuda views CHOGM 2026 not only as an opportunity to welcome the Commonwealth family to its shores, but also as a platform to promote practical partnerships, investment and collective action on the issues affecting member states, particularly Small Island Developing States.
With less than two months remaining before Commonwealth leaders gather in St John’s, preparations continue across Government and the national CHOGM Task Force to ensure the meeting’s successful delivery.
CHOGM 2026 will be held under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”
