Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey arrived in Antigua and Barbuda on Thursday ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), scheduled for November 1–4, 2026.
The summit will be Botchwey’s first CHOGM since assuming the role of Commonwealth Secretary-General.
Speaking to ABS News on Thursday afternoon, Botchwey expressed excitement about the upcoming discussions and highlighted her ambition to increase trade among Commonwealth countries to US$2 trillion despite ongoing geopolitical challenges.
In a Facebook post following her arrival, Botchwey thanked Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene for the warm welcome.
“My thanks to Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene for the warm welcome to Antigua and Barbuda ahead of #CHOGM2026,” she wrote.
“This is a special moment for me as it will be my first CHOGM as Secretary-General.”
Botchwey also expressed her eagerness to work alongside Prime Minister Gaston Browne in welcoming Commonwealth leaders and delegates to the country.
“I look forward to joining Gaston Browne in welcoming our Commonwealth family to Antigua and Barbuda for a consequential summit,” she stated.
“Together, we will mobilise bold partnerships and investment to build resilience and prosperity for our 2.7 billion people.”
The Secretary-General also praised the Browne administration for hosting the international gathering and commended the hospitality of Antiguans and Barbudans.
Her arrival came amid heightened activity at V.C. Bird International Airport on Thursday, with several international flights bringing visitors to the country ahead of the summit.
Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene said more than 5,100 overseas delegates have registered for CHOGM.
Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to welcome Commonwealth leaders, government officials and other delegates for four days of discussions on issues affecting the 56-member organisation, including trade, economic development and resilience.
Botchwey’s arrival marks another significant step in the country’s final preparations for the international meeting.
Source: Antigua News Room Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey Arrives in Antigua and Barbuda for CHOGM 2026.