Foreign affairs ministers from across the Commonwealth of Nations have gathered for their 26th meeting, held for the first time in an executive retreat format, as the bloc prepares for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting scheduled for November 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda.

The Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting also marks the start of activities for Commonwealth Day, observed each year on the second Monday in March.

Ministers used the retreat to discuss policy priorities ahead of the summit, which will take place from November 1 to 4. Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Affairs Minister Chet Greene and the country’s High Commissioner to the UK, Karen-Mae Hill, provided an update on preparations for the meeting.

The agenda also includes discussions on proposed reforms within the Commonwealth and developments affecting member states.

Organisers say the retreat format is designed to produce a “bold and practical” plan of action aimed at strengthening cooperation and shared prosperity among member countries amid a changing global landscape.