In his New Year Message for 2026, the Premier highlighted the major accomplishments the Virgin Islands achieved throughout the year. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands.

The Virgin Islands recorded notable achievements in 2025 that strengthened the national foundation of the territory, Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has said. Photo: VINO/File

In his New Year Message for 2026, the Premier highlighted the major accomplishments the Virgin Islands achieved throughout the year.

Significant achievements recorded 

‘’Yet, even amid loss, 2025 brought significant achievements that strengthened our national foundation. We completed the major governance reform agenda an accomplishment that reflects our collective commitment to transparency, accountability, and good stewardship. We secured the promise from the United Kingdom to lift the Order in Council- a testament to the hard work and the immense capabilities of the Virgin Islands public service, elected leaders, and community partners, who have remained steadfast in advancing our development.’’

Honourable Wheatley noted that the Virgin Islands economy continued to show resilience and promise, as tourism reached new heights with record arrivals, reaffirming the territory's status as one of the world's most desired destinations.

He added, ’the Financial services remain strong, delivering healthy revenues and reinforcing our reputation as a trusted, innovative jurisdiction.’’

Dedication of the people

The Premier further emphasised that these successes are the result of the dedication of the people—those who serve, build, teach, create, and welcome the world to our shores.

‘’As we step into 2026, we do so in a world marked by uncertainty, from shifting geopolitics to an unpredictable global economy but if history has taught us anything, it is that the Virgin Island spirit is indomitable, we rise above challenges, not by chance, but by unity, purpose, and an unwavering belief in our shared destiny.’’ he added.

The Premier called on Virgin Islanders to recommit to this goal in the coming year; ‘’let us recommit ourselves to that unity. Let us stand together, Virgin Islanders, at home and abroad residents who contribute daily to our progress, and visitors who have come to love these Virgin islands as their own. We are strongest when we move forward as one people.’’