Premier Calls for BVI Constitutional Advancement
Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley has addressed the United Nations Fourth Committee to advocate for the Virgin Islands' constitutional advancement and greater self-governance. During his address in New York, he outlined key proposals from negotiations with the United Kingdom, including having the Premier chair Cabinet and placing the Public Service under elected leadership. The Premier also engaged with international and regional partners ahead of the adoption of the annual UN resolution on the Territory.
Wheatley has called for the constitutional advancement of the Virgin Islands during an address to the United Nations Special Political and Decolonisation Committee, also known as the Fourth Committee, at the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly in New York. In his presentation to the international body, Premier Wheatley outlined key proposals put forward by the Virgin Islands Constitution Negotiating Team during ongoing discussions with the United Kingdom.
Among the principal reforms requested are allowing the Premier to chair Cabinet meetings and placing the Public Service under the direction of the democratically elected government. These constitutional frameworks are currently in practice in other United Kingdom Overseas Territories, including Bermuda and Gibraltar.
Premier Wheatley noted that keeping the international community informed on the Territory's progress toward greater self-determination remains a priority. Updating the UN Fourth Committee on the progress of decolonisation and constitutional advancement is an important obligation of the Virgin Islands, the Premier said, adding that his administration takes the responsibility very seriously as negotiations continue with the UK.
During his mission to the United Nations Headquarters, the Premier also highlighted productive dialogue with the UK Overseas Territories Minister, Uma Kumaran. He extended formal appreciation to the Special Committee on Decolonisation (C-24), the UN Fourth Committee, CARICOM, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), and neighboring Caribbean territories for their continued solidarity with the Virgin Islands.
While in New York, Premier Wheatley conducted several high-level diplomatic meetings, including discussions with Her Excellency Ambassador Menissa Rambally, Saint Lucia's Permanent Representative to the UN and Chair of the UN Special Committee on Decolonisation. He also met with His Excellency Ambassador Dr.
Walton Webson, the Dean of the CARICOM Permanent Representatives to the UN. The UN Fourth Committee is expected to adopt its annual resolution concerning the Virgin Islands following the conclusion of deliberations among member states during the current General Assembly session.
Primary source: BVI London Office