The United Nations (UN) Special Committee on Decolonisation (C-24) has approved the British Virgin Islands’ request for an official visiting mission.
Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley made the announcement on Friday, March 15, as he expressed his satisfaction with the decision, noting the importance of this development in shaping the territory’s constitutional future.
The visiting mission, which forms part of the committee’s 2024 work programme, holds immense significance for the Virgin Islands as it provides an opportunity for the UN to assess the situation of the BVI’s people in alignment with relevant UN resolutions on decolonization, self-determination, and the achievement of a full measure of self-government. Premier Wheatley emphasized that such missions are crucial steps towards advancing the territory’s aspirations for self-governance.
Acknowledging the support received from various stakeholders, including Caribbean nations and the wider international community, Premier Wheatley expressed gratitude to the UN representatives and member states who advocated for the approval of the visiting mission.
“I am grateful to the Caribbean nations that sit on the C-24 including Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines who have robustly supported our efforts. The advocacy of Belize and the wider CARICOM/OECS bloc, has also been critical to this breakthrough,” he stated.
The premier also highlighted the instrumental role played by individuals such as Her Excellency Menissa Rambally, Chair of the C-24, and Benito Wheatley, the BVI’s UN Representative, in facilitating the approval of the visiting mission. He also extended appreciation to Ambassador James Kariuki, the UK’s Deputy Representative to the UN, for his assistance in securing the agreement for the Mission.
Premier Wheatley emphasized that the approval of the visiting mission is a testament to the Virgin Islands’ consistent engagement with the UN and its commitment to advancing its constitutional aspirations. He underscored the importance of continued collaboration and dialogue with international partners to ensure progress towards achieving full self-governance for the territory.
As discussions regarding the timing of the visiting mission are underway, Premier Wheatley assured the public that further updates will be provided in due course.