Source: Pointe FM- The United Kingdom has agreed to provide technical assistance to Antigua and Barbuda as the country steps up preparations for hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in November 2026.
Ambassador Dr Clarence Pilgrim, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Resident British High Commissioner, John Hamilton, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Thursday outlining the terms of the cooperation.
Dr Pilgrim said the agreement represents an important step as the government works towards delivering what is expected to be a major national undertaking.
“This particular agreement will assist Antigua and Barbuda in its preparations for next year’s CHOGM,” he said. “This is a significant task, and we are grateful to our partners for offering assistance. As part of this support, a technical expert will be seconded to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from April next year. That individual will be on the ground ensuring systems are in place to help us deliver a successful and historic event.”
High Commissioner Hamilton said the UK was pleased to continue its support for Antigua and Barbuda, noting that previous collaboration—particularly ahead of SIDS4 in 2024—had delivered strong results.
“The UK is very happy to provide this support,” he said. “We were able to second staff to work with you ahead of SIDS4, and when the proposal arose for similar assistance for CHOGM, we were delighted to replicate that model. This is one of several forms of support we will be offering as Antigua and Barbuda prepares for the meeting.”
