Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), left, with Governor of the US Virgin Islands Albert A. Bryan Jr at the USVI–BVI Friendship Day celebrations on November 15, 2025. Photo: GIS

Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer (R5) was among the delegation to the USVI for USVI–BVI Friendship Day celebrations. Photo: GIS

The Virgin Islands was well represented at the 51st Annual USVI–BVI Friendship Day celebrations held under the theme, 'Binding Our Ties Through Friendship and Culture'. Photo: GIS

Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) extended his appreciation to Governor Albert A. Bryan Jr and the USVI Administration for their consistent support, especially during challenging moments in the VI’s democratic journey, when the United Kingdom threatened to impose direct rule through an Order in Council. Photo: USVI Government House

Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) is greeted during the BVI-USVI Friendship Day celebrations on November 15, 2025. Photo: USVI Government House

Premier Wheatley was speaking during a ceremony on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in observance of the 51st Annual USVI–BVI Friendship Day celebrations in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands, held under the theme, “Binding Our Ties Through Friendship and Culture.”

“Our connection runs deeper than the waters that separate us. It runs through our family names, our accents, our food, our music, and our shared resilience,” he said.

The premier led a delegation, which consisted of the Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer (R5); Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Dr the Honourable Karl Dawson (R1); Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, Honourable Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4); and other accompanying public officers and members of the public.

Significant partnership between USVI & VI 

Premier Wheatley highlighted the practical significance of the partnership between the Virgin Islands, noting continued collaboration in education, tourism, security, and development, particularly through the Inter-Virgin Islands Council.

During the ceremony, Premier Wheatley extended greetings on behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands, acknowledging USVI Governor Albert A. Bryan Jr, Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach, and leaders across all branches of the US Virgin Islands government for their warm hospitality.

Premier Wheatley described the annual observance as “not just an event; it’s a family reunion with official titles attached.” Expressing gratitude for the longstanding bond between the territories, he reflected on his own family’s connection to the tradition, noting that his grandfather, the late Honourable Willard Wheatley, welcomed the first USVI delegation to the VI in 1972. “I suspect he never imagined his grandson would one day stand here doing the same,” the Premier remarked.

Gratitude for USVI's support during UK takeover threat  

Premier Wheatley extended his appreciation to Governor Bryan and the USVI Administration for their consistent support, especially during challenging moments in the VI’s democratic journey, when the United Kingdom threatened to impose direct rule through an Order in Council.

He emphasised that the solidarity shown by the leadership and people of the USVI not only strengthened the Territory’s resolve but also significantly contributed to the eventual withdrawal of the proposed measure.

In closing, Premier Wheatley reaffirmed the shared commitment to unity, cultural pride, and cooperation: “The ties that bind us are stronger than any border. Our friendship is our strength. Our unity is our legacy. May the spirit of love and friendship that unites the Virgin Islands continue to flourish today, tomorrow, and always.”