PANAMA CITY, Panama – Antigua and Barbuda and the Republic of Honduras formally established diplomatic relations today through the signing of a Joint Communiqué during a ceremony held in Panama City on the margins of meetings of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) and the Organization of American States (OAS).

The agreement was signed by Sir Ronald Sanders, ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the OAS, and ambassador Pamela Handal, vice minister of foreign affairs of Honduras.

In remarks following the signing ceremony, both representatives welcomed the formal establishment of diplomatic relations as an important step in strengthening ties between the two countries and creating a framework for closer cooperation on matters of mutual interest.

Antigua and Barbuda to the OAS, and Ambassador Pamela Handal, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Honduras

They noted that, as members of the wider Latin American and Caribbean community, Antigua and Barbuda and Honduras share common concerns regarding global challenges, including the adverse effects of climate change, vulnerability to external economic shocks, and the need for greater access to affordable development financing.

Ambassador Sanders and vice minister Handal expressed confidence that the new diplomatic relationship would facilitate enhanced collaboration in regional and international forums, while also promoting exchanges in areas such as trade, investment, tourism, education, culture, and technical cooperation.

Both representatives also emphasised the potential for expanding economic opportunities between their countries in ways that would contribute to the prosperity and well-being of their respective peoples.