Marshall Says New Ambassadorial Role Offers Opportunity to Continue Serving Antigua and Barbuda

Newly appointed Ambassador-at-Large Samantha Marshall says she is ready to continue serving Antigua and Barbuda in a new capacity, describing her appointment as an opportunity to contribute to national development while representing the country’s interests abroad when called upon.

Marshall made the remarks Monday shortly after being sworn in at Government House as one of Antigua and Barbuda’s newest ambassadors-at-large.

The former minister and attorney-at-law was among two appointees who took the Oath of Allegiance, Oath of Office and Oath of Secrecy before Governor General’s Deputy Sir Clare Roberts during a ceremony attended by government officials, diplomats, family members and supporters.

Speaking after receiving her instrument of appointment, Marshall expressed gratitude for the support shown during the ceremony and said she was encouraged by the large turnout.

“I’m very pleased with this morning’s event and I’m equally pleased that we both have quite a good level of support coming out to support us this morning,” Marshall said.

“So it shows that there are a lot of persons that are very happy with our appointment and I’m very pleased for that.”

Marshall was also asked about Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene’s announcement that she would represent Antigua and Barbuda at an upcoming European Union-Cariforum meeting in the Dominican Republic, one of the first assignments given to her following her appointment.

She acknowledged that the announcement came unexpectedly but said she was prepared to undertake the responsibility.

“I’m still trying to recover from that; however, you know it’s expected,” she said.

Marshall noted that her years in government had prepared her for assignments that often arise with little warning.

“I’ve served as a minister of government. I’m accustomed to this. There are things that you have to do at the last minute, and so I will just get the brief and prepare myself accordingly.”

She added that she welcomed the opportunity to continue serving the country.

“I’m very happy to have this opportunity to serve,” Marshall said.

The newly appointed ambassador-at-large said the public could expect the same level of commitment she demonstrated during her years in elected office and government.

“I think it’s very much what I have been offering before as a servant of the people, Member of Parliament, Member of the Cabinet,” she said when asked what Antiguans and Barbudans could expect from her in the role.

Marshall described the appointment as both an honor and a responsibility, saying she intends to use the position to continue contributing to Antigua and Barbuda’s progress.

“I’m very humbled by the opportunity to continue to make a contribution to overall national development,” she said.

She also emphasized the importance of the office and pledged to discharge her duties in a manner that reflects positively on the country.

“I recognize the very level of importance of this post, and I hope to carry it out with fairness, transparency and, of course, with a lot of pride for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.”

Marshall and fellow Ambassador-at-Large Joanne Massiah were sworn in under Section 101 of the Constitution. Unlike ambassadors accredited to specific countries or international organizations, ambassadors-at-large are available to undertake special assignments on behalf of Antigua and Barbuda and may be called upon to represent the country at regional and international meetings as needed.

Greene said during the ceremony that the appointments form part of the government’s effort to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomatic engagement and provide additional support to the country’s foreign service.

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