TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, CMC – A joint declaration that guarantees a “trendy partnership” constructed on mutual respect and shared values was not too long ago agreed on between the UK (UK) and its 14 Abroad Territories (OTs), together with the British Virgin Islands.
The landmark settlement, cast through the Joint Ministerial Council assembly attended by Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley in November, paves the way in which for a extra clear, accountable, and empowering relationship.
Each side pledge to work hand-in-hand on problems with frequent concern, fostering stronger ties and a deeper understanding of one another’s wants and aspirations. The declaration features a dedication to apply the best governance requirements, together with human rights, the rule of regulation, integrity in public life, and monetary administration.
The declaration seeks to empower OTs by giving them a extra vital say in issues immediately impacting their communities. One key facet is the dedication to seek the advice of OTs on UK laws that impacts them, guaranteeing their voices are heard and their issues addressed.
UK Minister for the Abroad Territories, David Rutley, hailed the declaration as a major step ahead.
“The Abroad Territories are an necessary a part of the British household, and our shared values, reminiscent of assist for democracy and the rule of regulation, underpin this shut relationship,” Rutley mentioned.
He additionally highlighted the settlement’s position in equipping each events to navigate “the alternatives and challenges of the trendy world” collectively.
The declaration additionally addresses the essential situation of monetary assist. The UK has dedicated to exploring methods to enhance funding mechanisms for OTs, guaranteeing they’ve the assets essential to pursue their growth objectives. Moreover, each side will work in direction of presenting a unified voice on the worldwide stage, together with on the United Nations, showcasing the collective pursuits and aspirations of the UK and its OTs.
This joint declaration marks a turning level within the UK-OT relationship, shifting in direction of elevated collaboration, respect for autonomy, and shared accountability.
It additionally creates extra alternatives for the OTs to tackle duties the place they need to, reminiscent of round transparency measures and thru the event of ‘Compacts.’ These ‘Compacts’ will set out roles and duties on particular points in every group.
The UK will search to agree to those detailed bilateral agreements with every OT.
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