Premier Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley and United Kingdom (UK) Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) H.E. James Kariuki have held constructive discussions on relations between the UK and British Virgin Islands (BVI) during a courtesy call at the offices of the UK Permanent Representation to the UN in New York.
Among other things, they discussed climate change and the impact of recent torrential rains on the islands; UK support as a development partner of SIDS; the British Virgin Islands prospects for accessing climate finance; UK support for the participation of Overseas Territories (OTs) in UN fora; and governance reform.
Notably, Premier Wheatley thanked Ambassador Kariuki for his instrumental role in the securing of a visiting mission by the UN Special Committee on Decolonization (C-24) to the BVI to assess the situation on the ground.
According to Premier Wheatley, “My meeting with Ambassador Kariuki was constructive as always. He is a highly respected partner and voice of reason and pragmatism in UK-BVI relations. We share the view that there are opportunities for the BVI and UK to strengthen our relationship, especially as we consider how we respond to climate change, drive sustainable development and build a modern partnership that is fit for purpose in the 21st century. More dialogue will be needed for progress to be made on these fronts.”
Premier Wheatley was joined by Special Envoy Mr. Benito Wheatley and Ambassador Kariuki was joined by Mr. Philip Beer. The courtesy call took place on 10th June.