Officials representing the Government of the Virgin Islands have held successful meetings with High Commissioners from Ghana and South Africa on developing cooperation in a range of sectors.

Permanent Secretary in the Premier's Office, Mr. Brodrick Penn and BVI London Office Director and UK/EU Representative, Mr. Benito Wheatley met with the Ghana High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Victor Emmanuel Smith on June 16, and separately on June 20 with the South Africa High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Obed Mlaba.

The High Commissioners welcomed cooperation with the BVI that could cover areas such as law enforcement, tourism, culture and private enterprise.

Mr. Penn said, "We are very pleased that there is interest by Ghana and South Africa in cooperation with BVI from which we can mutually benefit. Africa as a whole is emerging economically and it is important that we play a positive role in the continent's growth and development."

The British Virgin Islands outreach to African nations reflects the Government's policy to strengthen its international relations with Commonwealth countries.