France and Antigua and Barbuda forges deeper bilateral ties
Declaring with pride the opening of its Embassy in France, Antigua and Barbuda has made a significant step toward enhancing bilateral ties and developing strategic partnerships. The historic choice, made under the direction of Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene and Prime Minister Gaston Browne, highlights Antigua and Barbuda’s steadfast dedication to international collaboration and diplomacy.
His Excellency Boris Latour is appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to France. He is a brilliant diplomat with a deep knowledge of France from his time at UNESCO in Paris. Ambassador Latour is a bridge builder because of his deep understanding of French culture and society, which promotes diplomatic relations between Antigua and Barbuda and France.
The opening of the Embassy in Paris is extremely important for Antigua and Barbuda, a small island country trying to use its worldwide presence for mutual advantage. This calculated action emphasizes Antigua and Barbuda’s proactive attitude to interacting with important foreign partners, especially in Europe.
Apart from developing deeper relations with France, the Embassy will act as a forum to promote Antigua and Barbuda’s interests throughout Europe. Strengthening international air links, enabling mutual legal aid in criminal cases, and recognizing diplomas, among other things, are priority areas of cooperation. Antigua and Barbuda want to improve communication with French offshore territories like Guadeloupe, only 90 kilometres from Antigua, and with the Metropole of Paris.
Moreover, France is one of Antigua and Barbuda’s top five trading partners, underscoring their close economic relationship.
Ambassador Latour said, “A turning point in the history of our countries was the founding of the Antigua and Barbuda Embassy in Paris. It represents our dedication to strengthening ties and encouraging collaboration in several industries. It gives me great pleasure to serve as Ambassador, and I look forward to further enhancing the relationship between our nations.”
To plan the presentation of credentials to His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, President of France, which is set to happen in the following weeks, Ambassador Boris Latour and First Counsellor Timothée Bauer met with the Deputy Director of State Protocol on April 23.
With Antigua and Barbuda making this historic move toward extending its international presence, the Embassy in France becomes a symbol of the country’s hopes for a better future on the global scene.