London, United Kingdom, 9th May 2023 – Premier Honourable Charles Washington Misick and Acting Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams attended the Coronation and met with His Majesty The King and senior members of the Royal Family and of the UK Cabinet.
The Premier and Lord Goldsmith (Minister for the Overseas Territories) held a bilateral meeting on 9th May in advance of the Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council to discuss the partnership between the United Kingdom (UK) and the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI).
The Premier has met a range of senior UK Ministers during his time in London including the Foreign Secretary, Home Office Ministers, and a range of other UK departments.
They agreed the need to step up support to counter irregular migration to the TCI and welcomed the imminent UK Government tender for a maritime surveillance aircraft for the TCI, alongside support to strengthen border security, tackle crime associated with this, and improve asylum processes.
The Premier raised the need to reform the TCI’s constitution and Lord Goldsmith agreed to advance discussions on the cross-party proposals for reform.
Lord Goldsmith welcomed the TCI’s recent accession to the Blue Belt programme, and they discussed the need to tackle illegal fishing and to progress maritime border negotiations.
Lord Goldsmith said:
I am grateful to the Premier for his leadership during his prior tenure as President of the UK Overseas Territories Association. The Turks and Caicos Islands are a valued member of the British family, in a partnership based on respect and shared values. We recognise that the Turks and Caicos Islands have continued to strengthen their institutions and good governance, and it is right that we recognise this in our approach to the constitution. Premier Misick said:
My government is pleased with United Kingdom’s commitment to advance discussions on the constitutional reform proposals set forth by myself and the Leader of the Opposition.
I am also pleased of the Minister’s commitment to assist with the ongoing threat of illegal migration and border security of our islands as this is vital to the future and success of our islands.
In my bilateral with Lord Goldsmith, a frank update was provided, and, with the Minister’s commitment, my government will do everything in its power to ensure action is taken; the United Kingdom’s promise is delivered, and our border remains protected.
Additionally, matters concerning the redevelopment of the Howard Hamilton International Airport was also discussed and Lord Goldsmith was provided with the official business case for review.
Our relationship with the United Kingdom remains strong and we will continue to build on the lessons learned together along with the reflection of the many successes.
Photo Captions:
Header:Premier Hon. C. Washington Misick and Rt Hon Lord Zac Goldsmith of Richmond Park, Minister for Overseas Territories.
Insert:Premier Hon. C. Washington Misick and Rt Hon Lord Zac Goldsmith, Minister for Overseas Territories and Acting Governor, Her Excellency Anya Williams.
