CABINET NOTES OF Wednesday 4 December 2024
The Cabinet convened its weekly meeting, beginning with customary prayers and expressions of gratitude for wisdom and divine guidance in leadership.
1. The Honorable Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, reported to Cabinet on his recent trip to The Hague in the Netherlands to address the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The Prime Minister expounded on the matter of a request for the Court to provide an advisory opinion on the Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change on Small Island Developing States (SIDS); and the response to the vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change due to their geographical circumstances and level of development. Prime Minister Browne reminded the Cabinet that Antigua and Barbuda has taken global leadership on this matter and continues to be an advocate for climate justice, notwithstanding the enormity of the fight against large carbon emitters.
2. The Cabinet discussed key foreign policy issues in light of global events, focusing on their broader regional implications and, more specifically, their impact on the country. The goal was to ensure proactive planning and anticipation of potential threats and opportunities in the global markets.
3. Prime Minister Browne outlined key focus areas for the upcoming Budget Speech scheduled for December 13, 2024. The speech will introduce several new initiatives aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs, with a special emphasis on empowering women and single mothers. Additionally, increased resources will be allocated to enhance poverty alleviation efforts and strengthen social safety nets for vulnerable communities.
4. i. The Cabinet reviewed a variety of projects designed to boost economic growth and increase the involvement of young entrepreneurs in emerging sectors such as information technology, agriculture, and hospitality. The importance of encouraging more local investments to drive socioeconomic development and growth was emphasized.
ii. The agricultural sector was identified as a key area for introducing new and diverse economic opportunities. The Ministry of Agriculture has been tasked with enhancing its food security program by fostering closer collaboration with farmers and relevant stakeholder organizations and adopting more advanced scientific farming methods.
5. The Cabinet extended a warm welcome to Ambassador Kimberly Percival and praised her outstanding recent accomplishments, including winning four of her last six competitions and securing podium placements in the others. Ambassador Percival expressed her gratitude for the government’s ongoing support and assistance over the past few years and pledged to continue representing and promoting the country with pride.
6. The Cabinet adjourned its session early to finalize preparations for the 2025 Budget Statement, scheduled to take place on Thursday, December 5th, at 9:30 a.m.
