A year after SIDS4, Minister of Tourism, UN Ambassador agree future is bright for Antigua and Barbuda as international conference destination
NEW YORK, 12th June, 2025…Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Investment the Hon. Charles Fernandez is receiving high praise for his role in making Antigua and Barbuda a premier destination for hosting international meetings and conferences.
Recognition of his Ministry’s strategic vision comes from none other than Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Walton Webson, who exerted his diplomatic influence in bringing the SIDS4 Conference to Antigua and Barbuda. The Conference was the largest of its kind to be held in the Caribbean and with the construction of the American University of Antigua conference centre, showcased Antigua and Barbuda’s potential and ability to host major international meetings.
The spotlight was again shining brightly on Antigua and Barbuda as the recent hosts of Caribbean Marketplace, organized by the Caribbean Hotels and Tourism Association, almost exactly a year from the country’s hosting of the SIDS4 Conference.
Both Minister Fernandez and Ambassador Webson shared thoughts on the exciting possibilities for the future during a meeting at the Antigua and Barbuda Permanent Mission in New York last week. The Minister was in the United States to participate in the events of Caribbean Week, organized by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO). He was joined in the meeting by CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) Colin C. James, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism Sandra Joseph, the ABTA’s US Director Dean Fenton and the ABTA’s Director of the Caribbean and Latin America Charmaine Spencer.
Ambassador Webson noted that Antigua and Barbuda has gained international prominence as the premier meetings and conference destination of the Caribbean. He said he was proud that last year’s SIDS Conference, a tribute to all the stakeholders who made it possible, has left a legacy for others to follow.
Meantime Minister Fernandez declared that this was a boast that his Ministry and the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has not taken lightly as they are actively pursuing opportunities to leverage their newfound recognition as the Caribbean hub for meetings and conferences.
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The AUA Conference Centre was a brilliant investment. Now the key is consistent marketing and ensuring seamless logistics for organizers and attendees. Beyond the infrastructure, the hospitality and efficiency of the local teams will be crucial for repeat business. I hope they’re investing in robust training programs.
Congratulations to the government for putting in the work to positioning Antigua and Barbuda where it is today
you guys said it all
Love the recognition! I hope some of these conference opportunities trickle down to young professionals and creatives who are ready to contribute.
This is not just about hosting conferences. It’s about putting Antigua and Barbuda on the global map for diplomacy, business, and innovation. Minister Fernandez and his team deserve every ounce of credit for turning vision into visibility. We’re no longer just a beach destination, we’re a hub of influence.