On behalf of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, we are delighted to host and to welcome all participants and guests to the 14th Caribbean Conference on National Health Financing Initiatives.

We are particularly pleased with the designated theme of the Conference ‘Confronting the Financing Challenges of COVID-19 and the Unfinished Universal Health Coverage Agenda’. This theme provides us with the opportunity, individually and collectively, to share and learn from each other’s experiences in coping with and managing the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic. The health-related challenges presented by the pandemic were varied and complex and placed significant stress on our already overburdened healthcare system. However, the pandemic also allowed us the opportunity to assess the strength and effectiveness of our healthcare system to reach our poor and vulnerable population and to cope with future health crises.

As policymakers in the area of health, we are tasked with the responsibility of safeguarding the health of the people. A strong and healthy population is necessary for the further growth and development of our respective countries and the region as a whole. It is therefore critical that we work cooperatively to address areas of risk and vulnerability in our healthcare system identified during the crisis, while we seek to strengthen our capacities and renew our commitments to providing universal health coverage to our people. In this regard, I look forward to the deliberations, the insights and the innovations generated during the conference, so that we can move forward collectively in financing and advancing the health and wellbeing of our people.

During your stay in Antigua and Barbuda please take a moment to enjoy our beautiful island. “Antigua and Barbuda” is a mature tourist destination with many breathtaking views, historical sites, and white sand beaches, which are arguably some of the best in the Caribbean. Let me once again extend an open welcome to all the participants and guests of the 14th Caribbean Conference on National Health Financing Initiatives.