The 50th anniversary of the first observance of the British Virgin Islands/United States Virgin Islands Friendship Day celebrations will be held on Saturday, October 22.

This year’s BVI/USVI Friendship Day is being hosted by Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, and will take place in the British Virgin Islands under the theme, “Our Golden Jubilee: A Resilient Bond of Friendship.” 

His Excellency the Governor Mr. John Rankin, CMG, Premier Wheatley, and other Government Officials will welcome USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and his delegation to the BVI.

Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt Igwe, said the celebration comes on the heels of the recently concluded Ninth Meeting of the Inter-Virgin Islands Council (IVIC).  

“Premier Wheatley wanted to ensure that this year’s celebration happened as 50 years is a significant milestone and cannot go unnoticed,” Mrs. Igwe said. 

 She added, “This is an exciting time in the relationship of both territories. The day promises to be a memorable one. We want the people to come out in numbers as we celebrate our friendship with the Government and people of the USVI.”  

The celebration will showcase various aspects of Virgin Islands’ culture including food, drinks, music, poetry, demonstrations and displays.

The public is invited to attend the ceremony at 10:00 a.m., dressed in Territorial Wear and join in the celebrations at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park.  

The last USVI/BVI Friendship Day was celebrated in 2019 on St. Thomas. The objective of the celebration is to reflect on the shared bond, history and culture of Virgin Islanders from both territories.

NOTE:
The people of the British Virgin Islands and United States share a special relationship bonded together for centuries. The first Friendship Day celebration was held on Tortola on 21^st October, 1972 following the issuance of a proclamation by Acting Governor, Mr. Norman Derek Matthews, OBE when he enjoined all residents of the British Virgin Islands to actively support and cherish the day.