CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana — **Friday, 31 October 2025:** Antigua and Barbuda’s leadership on the regional and international stage was commended by the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), **Dr. Carla Barnett** , as the nation celebrates its **Forty-Fourth Anniversary of Independence** on Saturday, 1 November.

In a message to Prime Minister **Hon. Gaston Browne** , Dr. Barnett said the country’s strong diplomatic presence was evident when it hosted the **55th Organization of American States (OAS) General Assembly** in June 2025 and will be further showcased as it prepares to host the **28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM)** in 2026.

Recognising Prime Minister Browne’s stewardship of the **Services portfolio in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet** , the Secretary-General said the Community anticipates his continued leadership in expanding opportunities across the region.

The Secretary-General’s full message reads as follows:

Prime Minister, on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), I extend warmest congratulations to the Government and People of Antigua and Barbuda on your nation’s Forty-Fourth Anniversary of Independence.

The theme selected for these celebrations, _“Solid – Stable – Soaring,”_ truly encapsulates your nation’s journey, purpose, and promise.

We laud Antigua and Barbuda’s exemplary leadership on the regional and hemispheric stage, as evidenced by the nation’s hosting of the General Assembly of the Organization of American States in June 2025 and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting scheduled for 2026.

We look forward to your continued contribution to expand the regional services economy and unlock new opportunities for all Caribbean citizens, under your distinguished leadership of the Services portfolio in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet.

Prime Minister, I extend best wishes for continued peace, stability, and progress.