The Government's ambition to establish Spanish as Antigua and Barbuda's second official language took centre stage on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony of newly appointed Ambassadors-at-Large Ms. Samantha Nicole Marshall and Ms. Joanne Maureen Massiah at Government House.
According to Antigua News Room, the ceremony was officiated by Sir Clare K. Roberts, KCN, KC, Governor General's Deputy, acting in the absence of His Excellency The Right Honourable Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda.
In his remarks, Sir Clare underscored the strategic importance of deepening Antigua and Barbuda's engagement with Latin America and the broader Spanish-speaking world, framing the Government's language policy as both an economic and diplomatic necessity.
"The Government has articulated a clear vision of making Spanish our second official language. This is not simply a cultural objective; it is an economic and strategic imperative," Sir Clare stated.
He noted that Antigua and Barbuda sits at the crossroads of the Caribbean and the Americas and must capitalise on emerging opportunities in trade, investment, tourism, education, healthcare, and cultural exchange with Spanish-speaking nations.
Pointing to the growing regional significance of cities such as Panama City and Cali, Colombia, Sir Clare observed that patterns of commerce, travel, and healthcare across the region are shifting rapidly. Antigua and Barbuda, he said, must be proactive in forging stronger relationships with nations throughout Central and South America.
"Our future prosperity will increasingly depend on our ability to engage effectively with our neighbours to the south. The Spanish-speaking world represents a vast market, a source of investment, innovation, and partnership, and Antigua and Barbuda must position itself to benefit from these opportunities," he said.
Sir Clare further noted that the timing of the two appointments is significant, coming at a pivotal moment in the nation's development and the evolution of its foreign policy.
"As Ambassadors-at-Large, they have an important role to play in fostering new relationships, opening doors for trade and investment, promoting Antigua and Barbuda abroad, and helping to build bridges with governments, businesses, institutions, and communities throughout the Spanish-speaking world," he added.
The Governor General's Deputy noted that both women bring extensive experience in public service, law, governance, and national development, and are well equipped to support the country's expanding international engagement.
The appointments reflect the Government's commitment to strengthening diplomatic outreach, advancing South-South cooperation, and ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda remains responsive to the shifting economic and geopolitical realities of the region.
Following the administration of the Oath of Allegiance, Oath of Office, and Oath of Secrecy, Ms. Marshall and Ms. Massiah formally assumed their responsibilities as Ambassadors-at-Large. The Office of the Governor General extended congratulations to both appointees and wished them success in their national service.
