The recent donation of thirty ballistic vests by the Republic of Malta to the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, has been described as a symbol of the enduring relationship between the two countries.
The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission in London has observed that Antigua and Barbuda and the Republic of Malta reached another milestone in their relationship with the donation of the vests.
“This contribution is more than a security asset; it is a symbol of shared priorities, practical cooperation, and resilience between two small island states committed to mutual support,” the High Commission said in a media release.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, E.P Chet Greene has praised Malta for tangible assistance that directly enhances ABDF readiness, providing comfort and assurance to those in uniform who protect the nation both on land and at sea.
“This donation reflects the close bonds of friendship and practical cooperation that exist between our two nations. Malta has shown, time and again, its commitment to working with Antigua and Barbuda as partners in security, development, and global advocacy. I commend our High Commissioner in London, Karen-Mae Hill, who also serves as Non-Resident Ambassador to Malta, for her pivotal role in soliciting this donation and for her continued work in fostering meaningful relations with Malta,” the minister noted.
At-a-Glance: Malta–Antigua and Barbuda Partnership
- Security & Defense: 30 ballistic-rated vests donated to ABDF; Level 4 protection — one of the highest ratings available globally
- CHOGM 2026: The Republic of Malta supporting Antigua and Barbuda’s preparations to host
- Water Management: 2022 MoU with Antigua Public Utilities Authority for leakage detection and control
- Maritime Governance: Global Centre for Maritime Sanctions Monitoring (GCMSM), backed by EU Project #MUSE
- SIDS Advocacy: Joint representation at the UN and Commonwealth
World-Class Protection, Ready for Action
Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, Chief of Defense Staff, described the vests as “world-class”, noting their Level 4 rating. “These vests offer one of the highest levels of protection a soldier can have anywhere in the world.” He confirmed they were immediately deployed during security operations for the just-concluded Carnival festivities, underscoring their operational value.
Beyond a Single Gesture: A Growing Partnership
Since the formal establishment of diplomatic relations on 23 July 2004, Antigua and Barbuda and Malta have pursued a cooperative agenda that extends well beyond defence. This partnership has included capacity-building initiatives such as joint training programmes for technical staff at the Antigua Public Utilities Authority, as well as mutual advocacy through coordinated positions on issues like climate change, maritime safety, and equitable global governance for small states. Both nations also share a strong commitment to sustainable development, working together to promote innovation, resilience, and effective governance.
Shared Vision for Security & Resilience
“In national security, as in all areas of governance, the strength of our partnerships defines our ability to protect our people and advance our shared values,” Minister Greene noted.
From frontline protection to strategic global initiatives, the Malta–Antigua and Barbuda partnership continues to deliver practical results and mutual benefits; a model for cooperation among small island developing states worldwide.
