Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene has called on Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomats to approach their assignments with renewed commitment, warning that diplomatic appointments carry serious responsibilities to the country and its people.
Addressing ambassadors, high commissioners, honorary consuls and other members of the diplomatic corps, Greene said diplomatic service must be driven by national interests rather than personal status or political loyalty.
“To the diplomats in the room this morning, I say: your posting is not a sinecure. It is a mandate,” Greene declared.
He urged diplomats serving both locally and overseas to defend Antigua and Barbuda’s sovereignty, pursue justice in international relations and build partnerships that strengthen the country’s resilience.
Greene said representatives stationed in Washington, London, Beijing, New York, Madrid and Havana must ensure that Antigua and Barbuda’s relatively small size does not diminish its influence on the international stage.
“Do not allow our small size to be mistaken for silence or insignificance,” he said.
The foreign minister also stressed the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relationships despite changes in political administrations, encouraging representatives to deepen cooperation within CARICOM, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States and the Commonwealth.
He said the interests of the Antiguan and Barbudan people must remain central to every diplomatic engagement.
Greene concluded with a direct appeal for professionalism, integrity and national service.
“I ask you to recommit yourselves, not to a government, not to a party but to the service of the people of Antigua and Barbuda,” he said.
He urged diplomats to represent the country with dignity, integrity and excellence, emphasizing that Antigua and Barbuda’s international relevance would depend on its principles, reliability and willingness to speak out against injustice.
Source: Antigua News Room FM Greene warns diplomats their postings are not a privilege but a mandate to serve.