Antigua and Barbuda Assumes Leadership Role at CICAD: PM Gaston Browne Addresses Inaugural Session
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda delivered remarks at the inaugural session of the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD), hosted at the OAS Main Building in Washington, D.C. In his address, he expressed gratitude for the support of member states in electing Antigua and Barbuda to chair this esteemed body, marking a historic moment as the first island state from the Eastern Caribbean to hold this position.
“This is both an honor for us and an endorsement of the leadership role that countries like ours could and should undertake on the world stage,” Prime Minister Browne stated.
Browne highlighted the contributions of Caribbean nations within CICAD’s framework. He commended Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and other regional leaders for their roles in expert groups addressing demand reduction, maritime narcotics trafficking, and multilateral evaluation mechanisms. He also acknowledged the involvement of Caribbean professionals in capacity building and early warning systems, ensuring enhanced drug policy responses across the region.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens’ health and protecting the nation’s tourism-dependent economy from the adverse effects of drug abuse and trafficking.
Prime Minister Browne outlined Antigua and Barbuda’s recent achievements in drug policy development, noting that the country’s previous policy expired in December 2023. By March 2024, a comprehensive evaluation of implemented actions was completed with support from CICAD. This laid the groundwork for drafting a new policy document in collaboration with CICAD’s Institutional Strengthening Unit.
“I assure you that as soon as the draft is completed, it will be presented to our Cabinet of Ministers for approval,” Browne pledged.
The Prime Minister praised the efforts of Lieutenant Colonel Edward Croft, Antigua and Barbuda’s Commissioner to CICAD, describing him as a steadfast advocate for the Commission’s mission. He expressed confidence in Croft’s ability to represent the nation effectively during its chairmanship.
Additionally, he acknowledged the contributions of local officials and institutions, including Dr. John Swift of the Anti-Drug Strategy Unit, Regis Burton of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority, and Feona Charles-Richards of the Family and Social Services Division, among others.
In closing, Prime Minister Browne announced Antigua and Barbuda’s selection to host the OAS Assembly in 2025, underscoring the nation’s dedication to fostering open and inclusive dialogue among member states.
“We are committed to addressing the hemisphere’s pressing issues collaboratively and inclusively,” he affirmed.
The event featured other distinguished speakers, including Luis Almagro, Secretary General of the OAS, and Adam Namm, Executive Secretary of CICAD.
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So many other leadership and title roles, and yet the one that he should be really focusing on (and the greatest honour bestowed on Antiguan) as Prime Minister of Antigua & Barbuda. He still cannot put right after two terms in office.
Let me guess now, what’s the only other title left for he to pursue? 🤔
No prizes for getting this simple answer correctly.
Not every person in our state shares the opinion of the commentator above. And I would ask a question to you. What are you doing to improve this twin island state of ours? Without strong institutions throughout our hemisphere and other countries throughout the world it would be difficulties to make progress. We cannot just sit back and criticise. We must also provide solutions no matter who is governs us.
Hi Sharon, it amazes me how having a differing viewpoint than those of Gaston Browne supporters (I.e, Gastonites) upsets them to the core of their poor unsettled souls.
I can guarantee you, I contribute more taxes than you Sharon, as a patriotic Antiguan; I give regular work/employment to fellow hardworking Antiguans; anyone that knows me will testify that I pay a fair wage (and on time 😉 unlike the ABLP) for a fair days work.
My business has survived (praise the Lord🙏🏽) despite Gaston Browne locking out passport holding Antiguans like me during the Covid-19 PLANDEMIC.
So as you can detect Sharon, I have a right to my opinion and utter disdain of a Prime Minister that could and should be doing so much better for the citizens of this great country of ours.
My words shouldn’t upset you, but the inactions of a two term Prime Minister who should be doing so so much better. Don’t you think?
FOCUS ON THE SUFFERING AND NOT ME.
I’M FINE THANK YOU VERY MUCH …