A delegation from the House of Assembly (HOA) of the Virgin Islands is in Turks and Caicos participating in the 45th Annual Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).

The CPA conference of the Caribbean, The Americas, and the Atlantic Region will feature several significant events, including the 13th Regional Conference of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), The Regional Executive Committee Meeting, and the 16th Regional Youth Parliament.

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports Honourable Sharie B. de Castro stated that the conference is an excellent opportunity to collaborate with fellow parliamentarians and stakeholders from across the region, share knowledge, and collectively work towards building a resilient and sustainable future for all communities.

Honourable de Castro said, “The attendance of the Virgin Islands delegation at this prestigious conference demonstrates the region’s commitment to strengthening parliamentary practices, fostering gender equality in politics through the CWP conference, and empowering the youth through the Regional Youth Parliament.”

The Education Minister added that the Virgin Islands delegation is eager to actively participate in the various sessions, workshops, and discussions that will shape policies and initiatives for the region’s progress.

Honourable de Castro added that the gathering promises to provide a unique platform for delegates to engage in constructive dialogues, share insights, and explore innovative strategies to address the challenges faced by the region.

The conference is being held under the theme, "Building A Resilient Region in The Face of Global Challenges," and is being held from July 21 to 28 in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.

The delegation representing the Virgin Islands includes Honourable Sharie B. de Castro; Deputy Speaker Honourable Stacy Mather MBE; Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith; Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Honourable Karl Dawson, Eighth District Representative Honourable Marlon A. Penn and Clerk of the House of Assembly Ms. Phyllis Evans.

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) is a global organisation with approximately 180 branches, divided into nine regions. It is an association of Commonwealth parliaments and legislatures, committed to promoting democracy, good governance, and cooperation among member states. With its diverse membership spanning across the Commonwealth, the CPA plays a vital role in strengthening parliamentary democracy worldwide.

The Caribbean, Americas, and the Atlantic (CAA) Region of the CPA comprises 19 Legislatures, including the British Virgin Islands, and plays a crucial role in promoting parliamentary democracy, good governance, and cooperation among member states.