The Honorable Anthony Smith Jr., Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy of Antigua and Barbuda, is actively participating in the second edition of Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue 2025. This prestigious event, hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in collaboration with India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, is taking place from October 27 to 29, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, India. As a featured panelist in the high-level Plenary Session titled “Oceans of Opportunity: Reimagining the Global Blue Economy,” Minister Smith Jr. is joining global leaders and experts to explore innovative strategies for sustainable ocean development and resilient coastal economies. His involvement highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s emerging role as a regional leader in promoting a climate-resilient and inclusive Blue Economy. During the Dialogue, Minister Smith Jr. emphasized the critical link between ocean governance, climate resilience, and the sustainability of small island nations. He showcased Antigua and Barbuda’s efforts to integrate ocean policy into national planning, foster blue innovation, and empower coastal communities through inclusive growth. The Minister has also engaged in productive bilateral discussions with representatives from Suriname, The Bahamas, and Fiji, focusing on South-South cooperation, knowledge exchange, and ocean-climate partnerships. Further high-level talks are planned with India’s Prime Minister and other leaders from Small Island Developing States (SIDS), aiming to amplify the Caribbean’s influence in global ocean governance. Accompanying Minister Smith Jr. is Ms. Marver Woodley, Senior Operations and Policy Manager in the Department of the Blue Economy, who is instrumental in advancing Antigua and Barbuda’s blue economy initiatives. Minister Smith Jr.’s participation at Sagarmanthan 2025 underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to sustainable ocean stewardship, international collaboration, and the Antigua and Barbuda Sustainable Agenda (ABAS). The event serves as a vital platform to foster partnerships, attract investments, and strengthen policy frameworks. In his remarks, Minister Smith Jr. stated, “Our oceans represent the last frontier for both innovation and equity. Antigua and Barbuda’s participation in Sagarmanthan reflects our deep belief that small island voices must shape global solutions. The Blue Economy is not just an environmental agenda—it is our economic future, our security, and our identity.”
Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of the Blue Economy Makes Strategic Waves at the Great Oceans Dialogue 2025 in India
