Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene has paid tribute to more than 600 volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy to helping Antigua and Barbuda host the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

Speaking at a welcome ceremony, Greene described the volunteers as the true face of the country’s hospitality, crediting them with playing a critical role in ensuring the success of the international gathering.

“They are the true face of hospitality, the first smiles that you will see, the helping hands that will meet you, and the quiet force behind every smooth moment of the summit,” Greene said.

He thanked the volunteers for their commitment, telling them they embodied the very best of Antigua and Barbuda.

The minister said their contributions reflected a wider national effort involving government ministries, security forces, religious leaders, schoolchildren, artists and entrepreneurs.

He noted that every sector of society had rallied behind the event, demonstrating the country’s ability to work together toward a common goal.

Greene said Antigua and Barbuda’s achievement as the smallest nation ever to host the Commonwealth summit was a source of immense national pride.

“We do so with immense pride and with the conviction that size does not determine significance,” he declared.

He emphasized that hosting an event of such magnitude required cooperation and a shared sense of purpose across the country.

The minister also welcomed delegates representing the Commonwealth’s 56 member nations and approximately 2.7 billion people.

Turning to the summit’s theme, “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth,” Greene said it was more than a slogan.

“It is a call to action,” he said, pointing to climate vulnerability and sustainable trade as challenges requiring collective action.

Greene said the gathering was particularly meaningful as Antigua and Barbuda celebrates its 45th anniversary of independence.

He encouraged delegates to enjoy the country’s hospitality and its 365 beaches while participating in discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation among Commonwealth nations.

The foreign affairs minister closed by expressing hope that the deliberations in St. John’s would be fruitful, bold and worthy of the people Commonwealth leaders serve.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: More than 600 volunteers praised for role in hosting Commonwealth summit in Antigua and Barbuda.