Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley marked his administration’s first year in office on Wednesday with a statement reflecting on the challenges and accomplishments over the past 12 months and reaffirming his commitment to building a sustainable future for the Virgin Islands.
Addressing the territory, Premier Wheatley acknowledged the obstacles faced, including securing post-disaster recovery resources, global inflation, governance reforms, shifting regulations, and financial constraints. However, he expressed optimism buoyed by the capabilities and resilience of the Virgin Islands people.
The Premier cited growing tourism arrivals, a world-class financial services industry, and the accomplishments of Virgin Islander youth as sources of pride and promise for the territory’s future.
Wheatley reaffirmed his administration’s vision guided by the recently passed National Sustainable Development Plan, which will be translated into “practical steps” to drive tangible progress.
While acknowledging the long road ahead, the Premier expressed an unwavering belief in the Virgin Islands’ ability to overcome adversity and “continue as a leader among nations.”
The Premier announced plans for an Inaugural Territorial Address on May 16th to discuss accomplishments, goals, and solutions to territorial challenges as part of “Building a Sustainable Nation.”
As the Virgin Islands government reflects on year one, Wheatley pledged strategic national transformation through sustainable development to prioritize and equip the territory’s greatest asset – its people.