Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) sought to deliver a message of hope during the State of the Territory Address titled, ‘Keep Moving Forward: Building a Sustainable Nation on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Memorial Park. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Scenes from the 2026 State of the Territory Address on June 9, 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) was joined by his Virgin Islands Party government colleagues on June 9, 2026, for the State of the Territory Address. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Scenes from the 2026 State of the Territory Address on June 9, 2026. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Progress, Premier Wheatley reminded, is a journey, one about building on the progress of each step taken toward the ultimate goal.

Showing that his government was in touch with the realities on the ground, Premier Wheatley acknowledged the challenges facing the territory but also spoke about the many progress achieved as well as the carefully conceived plans for the road ahead.

“We continue to lay the foundation for the social and economic transformation of these islands and their sustained growth and development despite a challenging external environment.”

We see your struggles & hear your concerns

Premier Wheatley admitted that everything is not perfect and the VI has faced serious challenges.

“The truth is, we as a people have been through a lot. We have endured one of the most difficult periods in our modern history. We were the victims of a climate crisis we did not create… we endured a global pandemic…we faced political uncertainty through a Commission of Inquiry and Order in Council…and today global conflicts continue to place pressure on the cost of living, making everyday life harder for families.”

He added that while as a nation, these challenges were endured collectively, each person has endured their own personal struggles. 

Some, he said, are drowning in bills; facing health challenges that have tested them physically, emotionally and financially; enduring domestic violence, bullying, trauma, crime or violations of their dignity and peace; struggling to find work or struggling to keep their business alive. 

“If that is your reality, hear me clearly: we see your struggles, we hear your concerns, and this government is working every single day to make life better for you, to make life easier for you, to create more opportunities and to help our people and this growing nation realise its full promise and potential.”

Do not lose hope

Premier Wheatleys said that despite every challenge faced, God has blessed the Virgin Islands and its people. 

“God has blessed us; blessed us with life, with talent, with resilience, and with the ability to work together in our own best interest. So I say to you, do not lose hope; we must remain focused, we must keep pushing forward, because despite every setback, we continue to overcome the odds, we continue to rise to the occasion, and we continue to build upon the legacy of those who came before us.”

The Premier said the story of the Virgin Islands has never been one of comfort but one of courage.