Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE, successfully concluded his attendance at the annual UK-Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council (UK-OT JMC) in London from November 28-29.

The Premier engaged UK Ministers on issues such as Disaster Response and Recovery, Climate Change and Financial Services.

"I raised concerns on the most important issues to the BVI's recovery and future resilience after Hurricanes Irma and Maria," the Premier said.

He went on to say, "I am pleased that UK Cabinet Ministers, including Foreign Secretary, Rt. Honourable Boris Johnson, and International Development Secretary, Rt. Honourable Penny Mordaunt, participated in the JMC which demonstrates the UK Government's high-level of engagement this year."

Premier Smith also attended the third UK-OT JMC on European Union Negotiations on November 28.

Commenting on his participation the Premier said, "I reiterated to UK Ministers the BVI's desire to maintain a relationship with the EU, particularly since the EU is the only international institution from whom the Territory receives development assistance that will support our recovery."

The Premier was joined by Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool, Chair of the Disaster Recovery Coordinating Committee, Brodrick Penn, Financial Secretary, Glenroy Forbes, Director of International Business Regulation, Neil Smith, Director of the BVI London Office, Benito Wheatley, Deputy Director of the BVI London Office, Dr. Sandra Besson, BVI London Office Legal Consul, Tracy Bradshaw, International Relations Intern, Akita Alexander and International Relations Intern, Xyrah Wheatley.

Photo Attached:  Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE attending the annual UK-OT Joint Ministerial Council in London. Photo Credit: Provided.