The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has launched an intensive training program for public officials to enhance operational readiness for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Conducted at the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Training Centre, the sessions bring together personnel from multiple ministries and agencies to strengthen interdepartmental coordination capabilities.
Foreign Affairs Minister E. P. Chet Greene emphasized the national significance of CHOGM 2026, characterizing it as a substantial governmental undertaking that demands seamless collaboration across all sectors. “This summit requires unprecedented coordination to guarantee security, operational efficiency, and an exceptional experience for all visiting delegations,” Minister Greene stated during the training inauguration.
The comprehensive preparation program forms part of a broader initiative to build public service capacity and establish Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a competent host for major international gatherings. Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim highlighted the crucial role of the newly established National CHOGM Secretariat, which provides a centralized framework for strategic planning and interagency alignment while addressing emerging logistical challenges.
Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, Chief of Staff of the Defence Force, indicated that preparatory efforts are transitioning from strategic planning to practical execution phases. “We are entering the most critical implementation stage where discipline, coordinated response mechanisms, and timely decision-making will determine our success,” Benjamin noted during tactical exercises.
The 2026 gathering will convene leaders from across the Commonwealth nations, positioning Antigua and Barbuda at the forefront of global diplomatic engagement and potentially elevating its international profile as a capable host state for significant multilateral events.