Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, E.P. Chet Greene, delivered a compelling address at the inaugural Raisina DPI Conclave, emphasizing the need for small island developing states (SIDS) to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to drive inclusive growth and resilience.
Expressed gratitude to the Observer Research Foundation, Carnegie India and India ’ s Ministry of External Affairs for hosting the event. In his remarks, he acknowledged the transformative potential of AI in sectors such as healthcare, education, disaster prevention and economic development. However, he underscored the challenges faced by SIDS in adopting these advanced technologies.
Challenges in AI and DPI Adoption
The Minister identified three primary challenges hindering AI and DPI implementation in Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean:
- Limited Financial Resources – The high costs associated with AI solutions and digital infrastructure present significant barriers for small economies.
- Scarcity of Skills and Training – The region lacks sufficient programs and mentorship in AI and data science, slowing the development of local expertise.
- Economies of Scale – Smaller populations make it difficult to attract large-scale private investment in AI- driven industries, increasing the per-capita cost of adoption.
Despite these obstacles, Greene reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda ’ s commitment to leveraging AI and DPI responsibly to enhance public services, bridge the digital divide and address pressing challenges like climate change and economic vulnerability.
Bridging the Digital Divide
Greene emphasized that technology should serve as a force multiplier only if it is accessible, affordable and user- friendly for all. He highlighted the importance of digital literacy and inclusive policies, citing India ’ s success with large-scale digital identity platforms and mobile-based services as an example that could inform Caribbean strategies.
“The Indian experience offers valuable lessons on how to deliver broad-based connectivity and public service outreach. We seek to learn from these examples and adapt them to our unique circumstances, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital era, ” he stated.
Proposed Collaborations with India
Greene outlined two concrete proposals for deepening AI and DPI collaboration between Antigua and Barbuda, the wider Caribbean and India:
- Pilot AI and DPI Projects in Antigua and Barbuda:
- Enhancing public service delivery through AI- driven solutions in healthcare and administration.
- Implementing AI-based climate adaptation and disaster management systems.
- Using AI for sustainable development strategies in tourism, infrastructure and marine conservation .
- A Comprehensive Study on AI Knowledge Transfer
- Establishing training and capacity-building programs in collaboration with the University of the West Indies ’ emerging AI studies center.
- Exploring innovative financing mechanisms, including public-private partnerships and engagement with development agencies.
Call for Private-Sector Engagement
Greene invited Indian technology firms to participate in these initiatives, highlighting the mutual benefits of South- South cooperation. “Their expertise, innovation and investment could significantly strengthen and accelerate these initiatives, ensuring that solutions are adapted, scalable and beneficial to our citizens, ” he remarked.
The Minister stressed that the true measure of technological progress lies in its equitable distribution and ethical application. He proposed forming a Working Group comprising representatives from Antigua and Barbuda, the Observer Research Foundation, Carnegie India and India ’ s Ministry of External Affairs to turn these proposals into tangible action.
“As small nations, we cannot afford to be passive spectators in the digital revolution. By working together through pilot projects, capacity-building programs and co-created solutions, we can transform concerns about being left behind into renewed hope, productive collaboration and resilient futures for our people, ” Greene concluded.
The Raisina DPI Conclave provided a vital platform for Antigua and Barbuda to voice its aspirations and challenges in the evolving digital landscape. Greene ’ s address reaffirmed the nation’ s dedication to forging strategic alliances that empower its people and position the Caribbean as an active participant in the AI-driven future.
