In a significant diplomatic development, Antigua and Barbuda and Bangladesh have pledged to deepen their bilateral cooperation during a high-level meeting held alongside the Commonwealth Foreign Ministers Gathering in London. The meeting between Foreign Minister E.P. Chet Greene of Antigua and Barbuda and his Bangladeshi counterpart Dr. Hasan Mahmud Rahman marked a substantial step toward strengthening South-South collaboration within the Commonwealth framework.
Dr. Rahman articulated Bangladesh’s firm commitment to multilateral cooperation, emphasizing the Commonwealth’s enduring role as a vital platform for developing nations. He highlighted the organization’s continued relevance in advancing shared values, sustainable development goals, and collective resilience among member states. The Bangladeshi minister specifically underscored his nation’s dedication to enhancing partnerships with Commonwealth allies, including Caribbean nations like Antigua and Barbuda.
Minister Greene welcomed Bangladesh’s offer of technical and diplomatic support while revealing crucial details about Antigua and Barbuda’s preparations to host the prestigious Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in November 2026. The St. John’s summit, scheduled for 1st-4th November, represents a landmark event for the Caribbean nation. Greene emphasized that robust partnerships and technical cooperation among Commonwealth members would be instrumental in ensuring the meeting’s success and advancing the organization’s collective priorities.
Both diplomats reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining regular diplomatic dialogue and exploring new avenues for cooperation on matters of mutual interest within various multilateral forums. Minister Greene specifically acknowledged Bangladesh’s ongoing partnership and support as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to welcome Commonwealth leaders later this year. The Antiguan delegation included High Commissioner to London Karen-Mae Hill and Minister Counsellor Chantal Phillip, indicating the importance both nations placed on this diplomatic engagement.