Premier defends benefits of in-person UK meetings

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has once again highlighted the importance of in-person meetings with United Kingdom officials and overseas territory leaders, arguing that face-to-face engagement strengthens cooperation and delivers better outcomes for the territory.

Speaking during a recent interview ahead of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA) political council session in London, Dr Wheatley said engagement levels change when leaders gather in person.

“Well, of course, the level of engagement is different when you leave your respective territory and you come here in person. It’s a level of focus,” he explained.

He added that direct interaction builds trust and stronger working ties among the overseas territories. “There’s a personal aspect to it as well. You get the opportunity to meet persons from other overseas territories to engage in polite conversation. And the familiarity that we develop… lends itself to a camaraderie, a collegiality, to a working relationship that is very productive,” he stated.

Premier Wheatley, who currently serves as President of UKOTA, said these relationships have been essential as leaders confront shared challenges. “That familiarity is serving us well as we confront challenging issues together,” he said.

His latest defence of in-person meetings comes as some members of the political opposition and the public have condemned the frequency and cost of official travel. In recent months, Dr Wheatley and other ministers have pushed back on criticism, noting that diplomacy, negotiations and access to UK ministers require physical presence. Government officials have also argued that significant outcomes — including progress on constitutional discussions, infrastructure matters and security cooperation — have come from meetings held in London.

During the UKOTA update, Dr Wheatley also underscored the value of meeting with the BVI diaspora while abroad.

“It’s very important that we engage with our students and our diaspora here in the United Kingdom,” he said while noting that many individuals travelled long distances to participate in the session. He added that these visits allow overseas Virgin Islanders to “find out what’s happening back home” and share how they wish to contribute to national development.

The Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) agenda covers security, illicit finance, health, and ongoing constitutional negotiations.

“We’ll be meeting with elected leaders… on different thematic areas,” the Premier stated. He added that the BVI will also discuss the airport runway extension, financial management protocols, and bilateral matters in its meeting with the UK government.

Premier Wheatley added that the days ahead would be full. “It’s going to be a very packed agenda,” he noted while pointing to receptions, side meetings and high-level discussions scheduled throughout the week.