Antigua and Barbuda has signaled its interest in deepening diplomatic relations with the Republic of Peru as both countries explore new opportunities for cooperation across several sectors.
The intention was outlined on Thursday by Minister of Foreign Affairs E.P. Chet Greene during a courtesy call by Peru’s newly appointed Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, Gustavo Lembcke.
E.P. Chet Green, Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Affairs Minister with Gustavo Lembcke, Peru’s newly appointed Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda
Although diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1985, Greene noted that engagement has remained limited over the years, with most interactions occurring on the margins of the annual United Nations General Assembly meetings each September.
“I hope that your appointment will be the beginning of renewed relations between our countries, as we are practically neighbours within the Americas,” Greene said. “We have supported your initiatives at the UN, but I believe the time has come for us to do more.”
The Foreign Affairs Minister pointed to several areas where collaboration could be strengthened, including climate change and education. He emphasized that small island states like Antigua and Barbuda face disproportionate impacts from climate change and could benefit from greater regional partnerships to address the issue.
Greene also highlighted the potential for academic cooperation through the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus, suggesting that partnerships with Peruvian universities could support student exchanges and expand opportunities for Antiguan and Barbudan students to learn Spanish.
Ambassador Lembcke welcomed the opportunity to strengthen ties, noting that Peru is seeking to expand its diplomatic presence and engagement across the Caribbean.