– Antigua and Barbuda continues to strengthen its presence in international diplomacy as part of an effort to resolve some of the world’s most pressing issues.

This was underscored this week when First Secretary at the Antigua and Barbuda Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Claxton Duberry, took the chair during deliberations of a crucial UN body.

Duberry has been presiding over a meeting of what is known as the First Committee. The body addresses some of the most consequential issues confronting the international community. Its mandate includes disarmament, the regulation of armaments, and international cooperation in maintaining peace and security.

For Antigua and Barbuda, participation at this level provides an opportunity for a small island developing state to contribute directly to deliberations on issues with far-reaching implications for international security and the future of multilateral cooperation.

Duberry was also elected to serve on behalf of Antigua and Barbuda as Vice President of the Committee for this the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

“This was an important moment for Antigua and Barbuda as it affirms the importance of our participation in the multilateral system. Small states must continue to play a role in shaping discussions and advancing solutions to the prevailing challenges facing the international community today,” Duberry noted.

Global security concerns are today demanding sustained diplomatic engagement. Antigua and Barbuda therefore remains committed to participating in fora where practical solutions and responses can be fully discussed.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antiguan and Barbudan diplomat chairs important session of UN First Committee.