A group of diplomatic representatives from Commonwealth nations commenced a two-day advance visit to Antigua and Barbuda on Tuesday ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in November.
The visit, which includes officials from the Commonwealth Secretariat, forms part of the government’s overall efforts to forge stronger technical, operational and protocol cooperation — elements that are crucial to the successful hosting of the global gathering from 1st to 4th November, 2026.
High Commissioner, Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, in underscoring the importance of the advance visit, described it as “perhaps one of the most important staging points of CHOGM”, which allows the representatives of member states to witness first-hand the preparations being made by the host country.
“Member states get a chance to see all of the buildings, all of the venues that will be used for CHOGM, and they take this back to their capitals to say Antigua and Barbuda has its act together, and is ready to host CHOGM, and is well underway in the preparations,” High Commissioner Hill said.
Already, the Antiguan and Barbudan diplomat is pleased with the reaction from members of the visiting delegation.
“We want to see positivity from the people who are here. You can see from the smiles and the questions being asked that people are pleased,” High Commissioner Hill added. “I feel very positive that Antigua and Barbuda is making a good show, and a great start to this advance visit.”
Tuesday’s activities commenced with a welcome and briefing ceremony at the American University of Antigua (AUA) Conference Centre, which was followed by a tour of the campus.
While welcoming the visiting delegation, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs, Ann-Marie Layne, said a coordinated effort is necessary in the coordination and execution of CHOGM 2026, and that Antigua and Barbuda is delighted to accommodate all stakeholders.
“As a small island developing state, Antigua and Barbuda is deeply honoured to host CHOGM. We see this not only as a responsibility, but as an opportunity – to showcase the strength, resilience, and unity of the Commonwealth, and to advance meaningful dialogue under our theme: “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”
“We are committed to working closely with each of you to ensure that all operational, technical, and protocol requirements are met to the highest standard. Your presence here today reflects the spirit of cooperation that defines our Commonwealth, and we value your partnership in this process,” Director General Layne stated.
Tuesday’s activities also included tours of V.C. Bird International Airport, Sticky Wicket, and Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground.
On Wednesday, the advance visit will continue to other historical sites and locations, including Government House, the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, and SJPC House of Restoration Ministries.
Australia, Samoa, Malaysia, Mozambique, Uganda, Rwanda, and Ghana are among the countries represented in the first advance visit.
Another delegation is expected to arrive in early May. This is in addition to virtual tours of venues and historical sites.
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