The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs officially launched the Diplomatic Encounter 2025 Thursday at the Royalton Resort. This two-day event serves as a critical platform for fostering global diplomacy, bringing together local and international leaders to engage in discussions on strategic priorities and the evolving role of Antigua and Barbuda in international relations.
Key Highlights from Day One of Diplomatic Encounter 2025:
The encounter began with an inspiring Keynote Address by Ambassador Martin Kimani, who addressed the diplomatic corps, non-resident ambassadors and honorary consuls. In his speech, Ambassador Kimani acknowledged the vital role that small island states, like Antigua and Barbuda, play in shaping the global diplomatic landscape. He highlighted the country’s continued commitment to multilateralism, advocating for climate justice, and addressing the global challenges that disproportionately affect small states, including economic stability, the erosion of sovereignty, and the need for reform in international institutions such as the United Nations Security Council.
Ambassador Kimani also underscored the importance of continued collaboration between Antigua and Barbuda and other small island developing states (SIDS), as well as key partners across the African continent and the wider global community. He emphasized that only through strategic coalitions and shared responsibility could nations successfully confront the pressing challenges of our time.
Ambassador Clarence E. Pilgrim, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also addressed the attendees, introducing the theme for the Diplomatic Encounter 2025: “Alignment of Diplomatic Outreach with National Priorities.” In his remarks, he reinforced the need for Antigua and Barbuda to ensure its diplomatic efforts align with its national development goals, focusing on economic prosperity, security, environmental sustainability, and regional cooperation.
Day One of the encounter provided a rich dialogue on the importance of strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s international partnerships, advancing its economic interests, and promoting sustainable development. Discussions were held on key national priorities such as the blue and orange economies, renewable energy, and climate action. The event also touched on the protection of small states’ sovereignty and the global financial system, with particular emphasis on debt sustainability, trade, and economic resilience.
The Diplomatic Encounter 2025 will continue Friday, March 28, 2025, with further sessions focused on actionable diplomatic strategies and global cooperation. This two-day session brings together ambassadors, foreign ministers, and high-ranking officials from around the world to tackle critical issues facing Antigua and Barbuda and the broader international community.
