BVI Engages at CARICOM Heads Meeting
The British Virgin Islands was represented at a CARICOM inter-sessional meeting by Special Envoy and CARICOM Ambassador E. Benito Wheatley on behalf of Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, who was absent due to the funeral of Dr Robert A. Mathavious OBE. Delegates discussed COP30 preparations, international trade, regional security and concerns about recent US missile strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking.
The British Virgin Islands was represented at a recent CARICOM inter-sessional meeting by the Territory’s CARICOM Ambassador, Mr E. Benito Wheatley, who attended as Special Envoy of the Premier. Wheatley was unable to participate after attending the funeral of the late Dr Robert A.
Mathavious OBE, recognised as a leading architect of the Territory’s financial services industry. Chaired by CARICOM Chairman and Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew M. Holness, the meeting brought together Heads of Government and State, ministers and representatives to address several pressing regional matters.
Key topics included preparations for the COP30 climate talks, international trade challenges, the humanitarian and political situation in Haiti, and regional security concerns. Benito Wheatley said the meeting "came at a pivotal moment in Caribbean affairs," noting that a confluence of issues involving trade, climate change and security "requires all Governments to be engaged." He added that he has briefed Premier Wheatley on the deliberations and is keeping the Government regularly updated. "Through diplomatic channels, we remain in close and continuous contact with CARICOM and other regional bodies such as the OECS and the Association of Caribbean States," the Special Envoy said.
A major focus was recent actions by the United States in the region, including a heavier military presence and the use of missile strikes against vessels alleged to be transporting illegal drugs. Reports indicate several people have died in those strikes. CARICOM has emphasised that the fight against drug trafficking must be conducted within the bounds of international law, though Trinidad and Tobago has reserved its position on the bloc's statement.
Premier Wheatley said he is "closely following the critical issues affecting our region" and that the Territory is monitoring developments for any potential impacts on BVI society. "Should there be any adverse effects that directly affect the British Virgin Islands, I will bring them to the public’s attention," he said.
As an Associate Member of CARICOM, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), the British Virgin Islands maintains active engagement with regional partners. The presence of the Territory's Special Envoy at the meeting underscores the government’s intent to stay involved in discussions that could affect trade, security and climate resilience for residents of the BVI.
Benito Wheatley currently serves as the Territory’s regional and UN Ambassador, representing BVI interests in multilateral and diplomatic forums.
Primary source: VINO