The Premier also hosted the annual Diaspora Gathering at BVI House in London as part of the Virgin Islands delegation's preparations for the 2025 Joint Ministerial Council (JMC). Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

As President, the Premier co-chaired the Joint Ministerial Council, which serves as the highest-level annual forum for dialogue between elected leaders of the United Kingdom's Overseas Territories and ministers of His Majesty's Government. Photo:Government of the Virgin Islands.

As President, the Premier co-chaired the Joint Ministerial Council, which serves as the highest-level annual forum for dialogue between elected leaders of the United Kingdom's Overseas Territories and ministers of His Majesty's Government.

This year’s meeting was hosted by the Minister for the Overseas Territories, Stephen J. Doughty, MP, at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in London.

series of meetings

Throughout the week, leaders from the Overseas Territories, including the Premier, participated in plenary sessions, technical workshops, bilateral meetings, and political discussions covering some of the most pressing issues of our time. As Chair of the UK Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA), the Virgin Islands played a leading role. Premier Wheatley guided the collective engagement of the Overseas Territories with the UK, setting the tone for discussions and opening several major sessions.

The agenda addressed topics such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, cybersecurity, the outcomes of COP30, the launch of the new Overseas Territories Biodiversity Strategy, and efforts to improve access to climate finance.

Security was also a central theme, with discussions involving the Home Office, Ministry of Defence, and Ministry of Justice focusing on internal security, irregular migration, border management, and criminal justice. Other sessions covered illicit finance, beneficial ownership transparency, FATF preparedness, Overseas Development Assistance, and planning for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Premier host Diaspora Gathering 

The Premier also hosted the annual Diaspora Gathering at BVI House in London as part of the Virgin Islands delegation's preparations for the 2025 Joint Ministerial Council (JMC). 

The event brought together Virgin Islands students, professionals, and residents living in the United Kingdom for an evening of meaningful dialogue, connection, and collaboration.

Premier Wheatley, along with senior government officials, led the engagement. Attendees were encouraged to share their perspectives and priorities concerning the development of the Virgin Islands. Topics included educational and economic opportunities, public service, national identity, and strategies for strengthening the global Virgin Islands community. 

Premier Wheatley emphasised the vital role of the diaspora in national progress, stating: "Our people abroad are an essential part of the Virgin Islands' story. Your insights, skills, and experiences continue to enrich our Territory, and the Government remains committed to ensuring you have pathways to contribute meaningfully to our collective future."

Participants expressed a desire to enhance academic support networks, expand career pathways for returning graduates, and explore opportunities for remote collaboration in areas such as technology, public policy, health, and culture.