Today I was saddened to learn of the passing of former Governor of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) Charles W. Turnbull. 

Governor Turnbull served the people of the USVI with distinction for two consecutive terms (1999 to 2007) and made an invaluable contribution to the development of the Territory.

He was a dear friend of the British Virgin Islands and a Belonger who was instrumental in the strengthening of ties between the "Greater Virgin Islands" that saw the revival of the renamed Inter-Virgin Islands Council and the renewal of ties for the USVI-BVI Friendship Day.

On behalf of the Government and people of the British Virgin Islands, I extend deepest condolences to the family of the late former Governor Charles W. Turnbull. I also extend condolences to the people of the United States Virgin Islands.