Minister for the Overseas Territories, the Rt Hon Lord Goldsmith, has arrived in the British Virgin Islands on a three-day visit from January 31 to February 2.

Lord Goldsmith’s visit is to further develop the partnership between the UK and BVI and discuss a range of issues including United Kingdom support for environmental and security projects and implementation of the Commission of Inquiry recommendations.

His Excellency the Governor, John Rankin while outlining the minister’s programme said: “I welcome The Rt Hon Lord Goldsmith to the Territory on his first official visit to these beautiful islands to discuss the implementation of the COI recommendations and to help get a greater understanding of the issues facing the BVI.”

The minister will meet with elected representatives, senior officials, and community representatives. His programme will focus on both security and environmental issues, with a visit to RVIPF’s Marine Base and to Anegada to see the impact of the Stony Coral Tissues Loss Disease.

The Rt Hon Lord Goldsmith said that he is pleased to have the opportunity to visit the Virgin Islands.

 “I am keen to meet the people here and to learn more about the BVI first-hand. I look forward to discussions focusing on the reform programme and how to ensure momentum is maintained,” the Minister for Overseas Territories said.

Lord Goldsmith said he was also excited to see the range of conservation and biodiversity projects and discuss potential areas where the Governments of the VI and the UK can further work together in helping build the Territory’s resilience to climate change.

The Rt Hon Lord Goldsmith succeeds The Rt Hon Amanda Milling who previously visited the Virgin Islands as Minister for the Overseas Territories in 2022.