Premier hosts Bahamas foreign minister for high-level talks

The Virgin Islands this week hosted Bahamas Foreign Affairs Minister Frederick A Mitchell Jr for a series of high-level meetings centred on constitutional development, regional cooperation and closer ties between the two Caribbean territories, according to the Premier’s Office.

Mitchell arrived in the territory on Wednesday, July 1, for engagements with government ministers, members of the Constitutional Negotiating Committee and representatives from civil society. The visit comes as the Virgin Islands prepares to enter formal constitutional negotiations with the United Kingdom later this month as part of its constitutional reform agenda.

According to the Premier’s Office, discussions focused on constitutional development, democratic governance and citizen participation, with participants exchanging perspectives on the experiences of small island states and the role of strong institutions, public engagement and effective leadership in national development.

The talks also examined regional cooperation through the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), including labour mobility, immigration, education, economic resilience, foreign service, protocol and regional security. Officials also discussed opportunities for greater collaboration between the Virgin Islands and The Bahamas, including continued dialogue on matters of mutual interest and the possible development of a Memorandum of Understanding to support future cooperation.

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley said the visit reflected the importance of strengthening partnerships across the Caribbean.

“The Caribbean is strongest when we stand together. It is an honour to host Minister Mitchell and to continue building on the longstanding friendship between The Virgin Islands and The Bahamas. Through dialogue, cooperation and the sharing of ideas and experiences, we can strengthen our institutions, advance our common interests and deliver tangible benefits for the people we serve. That spirit of collaboration is one that I remain deeply committed to fostering, both within our region and beyond,” Wheatley stated.

The itinerary includes meetings with government ministers, members of the Constitutional Negotiating Committee and representatives from organisations including the BVI Christian Council, Rotary Clubs, the Alzheimer’s Association, the Police Welfare Association and the Virgin Islands Communal Association.