CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett, has hailed the "remarkable progress" Antigua and Barbuda has made over the 41 years of its independence.

"Antigua and Barbuda has made remarkable progress in these 41 years of independence, making this year’s theme: “Moving Forward With Unity Strength And Stability” a fitting representation of a people resolute in their pursuit of prosperity, sustainable development, and the wellbeing of their country," Dr. Barnett said in a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

Please see the Secretary-General's congratulatory message below:

“Honourable Prime Minister,

On the occasion of your country’s Forty-First Anniversary of Independence, it is my pleasure to extend congratulations to you and the People of Antigua and Barbuda on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) as you celebrate another milestone.

Antigua and Barbuda has made remarkable progress in these 41 years of independence, making this year’s theme: “Moving Forward With Unity Strength And Stability” a fitting representation of a people resolute in their pursuit of prosperity, sustainable development, and the wellbeing of their country.

Honourable Prime Minister, CARICOM has benefitted from the efforts of the Government and People of Antigua and Barbuda in promoting regional integration. Your leadership and advocacy as Lead Head of Government for the Services Sector has ensured that the Community’s interests in a critical area of economic growth remain at the forefront of the regional and international agenda. The Community looks forward to the continued active participation of Antigua and Barbuda in the work of its Organs and Institutions.

Excellency, as the Government and People of Antigua and Barbuda celebrate this Independence Day, I join with the CARICOM family in extending best wishes for the continued advancement of Antigua and Barbuda and the wellbeing of its People.”