With the announcement of the dates for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) next year, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Botchwey met on Tuesday with the team that is responsible for delivering a successful event.
The meeting with the heads of the several subcommittees of the CHOGM Task Force, provided an opportunity for these individuals to give updates on their plans for the specific subject areas for which they are responsible.
The meeting was chaired by, Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the CHOGM 2026 Task Force. The meeting with the Task Force was one of the key reasons for the Secretary-General’s visit to Antigua and Barbuda; to undertake a review of the preparations for CHOGM ’26.
The Secretary-General was briefed on the work being undertaken by the Task Force across key operational areas, including logistics, accommodation, transport, security, communications, and hospitality. Discussions also focused on ensuring strong collaboration between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Commonwealth Secretariat, with an emphasis on the use of local expertise and partnerships to deliver an efficient, inclusive, and sustainable CHOGM.
In her address, the Secretary-General commended the team for its commitment and attention to detail, noting that the successful delivery of CHOGM 2026 will not only strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s global profile but also showcase the capabilities of small island developing states within the Commonwealth.
Ambassador Dr. Pilgrim expressed appreciation for the Secretary-General’s visit and her continued guidance, reaffirming that the Task Force is dedicated to ensuring that the 2026 Meeting reflects the values of the Commonwealth and creates lasting economic and social benefits for Antigua and Barbuda.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continued coordination between the Government and the Secretariat to ensure a world-class event under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”
Also in attendance was Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Kingdom, who serves as Antigua and Barbuda’s National Focal Point to the Commonwealth, Mrs Ann-Marie Layne, Director General of Foreign Affairs, and Vernon Solomon the Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of the American University of Antigua.
