Governor General Sir Rodney Williams used the foreign affairs section of Tuesday’s Speech from the Throne to warn that ongoing global conflicts are creating economic hardships for small island states like Antigua and Barbuda, while praising the government’s diplomatic leadership and commitment to regional integration.
Addressing Parliament during the ceremonial opening of the new session, Sir Rodney described foreign affairs as “one of the most challenging portfolios” facing the country.
He said poor management of international relations could expose small developing states to geopolitical pressures beyond their control.
“There are two wars being waged by the strongest nations on Earth,” Sir Rodney said, referencing the Russia-Ukraine conflict and tensions involving Israel and Iran.
He noted that sanctions imposed on Russia and instability in key global shipping routes have contributed to higher fuel prices, insurance costs and increased prices for consumer goods worldwide.
“When the USA and Israel launch attacks against Iran and that country closes one of the sea lanes through which 20 per cent of the world’s oil is usually transported, the price of shipping, insurance sales and consumer goods also begin to rise globally,” he said.
Sir Rodney said small island states had played no role in starting the conflicts but were still forced to deal with the economic consequences.
“Small states have played no role in starting these conflicts that have generated tough economic choices for the people of Antigua, the Caribbean and the people of these two large states,” he said.
The Governor General also praised Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene, saying his reappointment reflected the government’s confidence in his ability to manage the portfolio during uncertain global conditions.
“The management of our state’s foreign affairs by a very skillful minister… demonstrates the same reasons why faith is placed by my government in the Honourable Paul Chet Greene,” Sir Rodney said.
He also reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to regional integration through CARICOM, describing the regional body as essential to the country’s stability and prosperity.
“My government views CARICOM as essential to our island’s stability and prosperity,” Sir Rodney said, while pointing to the importance of collective action among Caribbean states.