Antigua and Barbuda prepares to host Commonwealth summit

Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) from November 1–4. Foreign Affairs Minister E. P. Chet Greene stated the nation is ready for the event, which is expected to be the largest international gathering in the country's history, with over 11,000 accredited participants awaiting final security clearance.

The summit, themed “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth,” will bring together leaders from the 56 Commonwealth nations. Key discussion topics include climate finance, energy transition, digital technology, international development, and reparatory justice regarding the transatlantic slave trade. King Charles III and Queen Camilla are expected to attend.

In anticipation of the meeting, the Commonwealth Secretariat has launched a new investment platform featuring over 60 projects from 20 countries. These projects, spanning sectors such as energy, transport, and agriculture, represent approximately US$30 billion in potential investment opportunities. Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey noted that the summit aims to connect government and business leaders to mobilize investment for sustainable growth and resilience, particularly for Small States and Least Developed Countries.