The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs is pleased to announce the upcoming 2025 Diplomatic Encounter Forum, themed “Alignment of Diplomatic Outreach with National Priorities”. Scheduled for 26–28 March 2025, this landmark event will bring together Cabinet Members, Heads of Missions, Ambassadors, Diplomatic and Consular Representatives, Honorary Consuls, Ministry officials and staff, and distinguished speakers to enhance Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomatic engagement and advance the nation’s strategic objectives on the global stage.
Ambassador Clarence Pilgrim, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, underscored the Forum’s importance, stating:
“The 2025 Diplomatic Encounter Forum will be a pivotal platform for harmonising our diplomatic outreach with the nation’s strategic priorities. By fostering collaboration among our Ministry staff, diplomatic corps and engaging key stakeholders, we aim to position Antigua and Barbuda as a proactive and influential voice in regional and global affairs.”
The Honourable E.P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, highlighted the Forum’s role in shaping the country’s foreign policy agenda:
“As a Small Island Developing State, Antigua and Barbuda stands at the crossroads of vulnerability and resilience in an era of geopolitical uncertainty—where forging new alliances and reaffirming existing partnerships is paramount. The 2025 Diplomatic Encounter Forum will recalibrate our foreign service to reflect critical national priorities, from economic growth and climate resilience to tourism and investment.”
The Forum opens on 26 March 2025 with a Welcome Reception, followed by an Opening Ceremony at the Royalton Hotel. The Honourable Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, will deliver the keynote address. Panel discussions throughout the event will cover topics such as Antigua and Barbuda’s capacity to host international conferences, the intersection of tourism and the blue economy, the Citizenship by Investment Programme, Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development, and shifting geopolitical relations. The Forum concludes with a featured address by the Honourable E.P. Chet Greene, outlining actionable steps to advance Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomatic agenda.
