A broad-based group of stakeholders is fully engaged in preparing Antigua and
Barbuda for hosting the 4th United Nations Conference on Small Island States,
known as SIDS4, which will take place on island from May 27 – 30 at the
American University of Antigua.
The conference will bring thousands of delegates from those nations which are
considered islands from across the globe to Antigua and Barbuda. They will have
an opportunity to discuss among themselves and with their international partners
the variety of issues that threaten their survival by virtue of their exposure to the
harmful impacts of climate change, external economic shocks and burdensome
debt among others.
The Antigua and Barbuda Mission in New York is the national lead in the overall
organization of the event, which is held once every decade to focus on the plight of
these countries. The resources of several key ministries and agencies in Antigua
and Barbuda have been activated to meticulously plan and coordinate the event,
increase awareness activities, and ensure that a successful outcome of the
conference is achieved.
On his most recent visit, Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the
United Nations Ambassador Dr. Walton Aubrey Webson held meetings with
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Minister
of Health and the Environment Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister of Foreign Affairs
E.P Chet Greene and members of the team at his Ministry, Minister of Education
the Daryl Matthew, the National Coordinating Committee chaired by
Sheila Roseau, and other key stakeholders and private sector partners.
These latest rounds of discussions proved a valuable information sharing exercise
in the exchange of thoughts and ideas as well as reviewing and providing updates
on progress and challenges.
“I am pleased with the progress in the construction of the conference centre at the
American University of Antigua and it is truly heartening to see the immense
collaboration taking place across government agencies to ensure Antigua and
Barbuda hosts a major conference of this nature. On every front, from security,
transportation to accommodation, we are making steady progress,” Ambassador
Webson remarked.
Ambassador Webson began his visit with a round of media engagements that
kicked off a campaign to sensitise members of the public about the conference and
educate them on the crucial matters that will arise from the discussions.
