His Majesty King Charles III marked the celebration of Virgin Islands Day on Monday by extending congratulations to the people of the British Virgin Islands, while commending local and international efforts to restore the territory’s fragile natural ecosystems.
In a formal message addressed to Acting Governor David Archer Jr., the King acknowledged the work of the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands, particularly its collaboration with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew.
“I was pleased to hear how the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands has partnered with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew to restore natural habitats on Great and Little Tobago Islands,” the King stated in his message.
The two uninhabited islands, located off the northeastern coast of the territory, are known for their ecological significance, including nesting sites for seabirds and rare plant species. The ongoing habitat restoration projects are part of broader conservation efforts aimed at combating biodiversity loss and the effects of climate change in the Caribbean.
His Majesty further referenced the Youth Empowerment Project, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025. “I recall my visit to the project in November 2017 to see their important work to help young people deal with the experiences of hurricanes Irma and Maria,” he said, referring to the Category 5 storms that devastated the islands eight years ago. “I am pleased to hear of their ongoing success in supporting the young people of the Virgin Islands.”
The King also reaffirmed his commitment to continued cooperation with the Virgin Islands on environmental and climate-related matters. “I cherish greatly the strong ties between us and know that we will continue working together on important climate change and environmental issues,” he wrote.
Virgin Islands Day, which was renamed from Territory Day in 2020, celebrates the cultural heritage and political development of the British Overseas Territory. This year’s observance included public events, ceremonial reflections, and renewed calls for environmental stewardship.
The National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands, established in 1961, manages over 20 national parks across the islands. Its work ranges from marine conservation and trail maintenance to reforestation and species recovery programs.
Closing his message, the King extended his personal regards to the Premier and people of the Virgin Islands: “My wife and I would like to take this opportunity to send our very best wishes for the year ahead.”
The message was signed, “Charles R.”
