In a congratulatory letter dated 6^th November, 2020 Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Andrew A. Fahie on behalf of the Government and People of the Virign Islands congratulated newly elected Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves on his re-election and pledged continued collaboration and support as St. Vincent and the Grenadines enters a new chapter of its political life.

Premier Fahie shared, “The entire Government and people of the Virgin Islands join me in congratulating you and the members of the Unity Labour Party on the success achieved at the polls, and the renewed mandate entrusted to you by the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

Premier Fahie wrote that the resounding victory of his Government reflects how effectively he delivered for the people and guided them into this new phase of development and economic diversification.

“Your leadership and management of the Covid-19 pandemic, one of the most challenging in a generation, has been exemplary. Your dedication and service to the people of St. Vincent and Grenadines, and indeed the entire region as the longest consecutively elected leader in CARICOM, now entering your fifth term in office is a testament to your commitment to the success and prosperity of our entire region,” Premier said, adding, “I know that you will continue to harness the voices and ideas of your citizens, and empower them further as you move your country forward.”

Premier further shared with Prime Minister Gonsalves that as the team begins this new term, he looks forward to continue to deepen the friendly partnership between the Governments of the Virgin Islands and St. Vincent and the Grenadines in regional and international spheres.

Additionally, Premier Fahie congratulated the Prime Minister on assuming the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council earlier in the week.

“The appointment of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to this High Office reflects the progress our region has made in shaping international policy. You have my full support, and I am sure that of the entire region, as we unite our efforts to rebuild our economies, protect our environment, and maintain the health of our citizens,” Premier Fahie said. 

He added that the recent appointment of Bishop Ishmael Charles, as Honourary Consul and the historic opening of the Consular Office here on Tortola will strengthen the bonds between our people.

He said, “We honour these well-established relations, deeply rooted in friendship and familial ties, and remain committed to progressive exchanges with your Government as we work together to collaborate in areas of mutual interest.

Premier took the opportunity to state that the BVI has set itself the vision of transforming the Virgin Islands into a leading regional economy by 2025 through entrepreneurship, innovation, foreign and local investment.

“We are also poised to begin major initiatives in construction and trade, and we see all our neighbours in the CARICOM region as being key to this effort. We recognise that St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a lot to offer as a trade partner and supplier of food and other goods, and look forward to deepening this area of our collaboration,” Premier Fahie said.

Premier Fahie ended his letter wishing the new Prime Minister enduring good health, lasting peace, and success as he begins this new leg of the journey.

“The entire Government and people of the Virgin Islands join me in congratulating you on your re-election and pledge our continued collaboration and support as St. Vincent and the Grenadines enters a new chapter of its political life.”

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NOTES TO EDITORS

Photo 1: Official Photo of Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Andrew A. Fahie (Photo credit: GIS)