Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, is among regional leaders attending the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which officially opened on Saturday, July 6, in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The Premier is representing the Virgin Islands in high-level discussions focused on regional security, economic resilience, and deeper integration among Caribbean states.
The opening ceremony brought together representatives from all 21 CARICOM Member States and Associate Members. Hosted by the Government of Jamaica, the ceremony featured a display of the country’s cultural heritage through performances by noted Jamaican artists and creatives.
During remarks ahead of the summit’s formal sessions, Premier Wheatley emphasized the importance of the Virgin Islands’ participation in regional dialogue.
“This CARICOM meeting is a strategic opportunity for the Virgin Islands to deepen regional alliances and advance critical national interests,” Premier Wheatley stated. “From tackling transnational and organised crime in the region to addressing environmental vulnerabilities, we are here to ensure the Virgin Islands’ voice is both heard and supported.”
Outgoing CARICOM Chair and Prime Minister of Barbados, the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, urged member states to strengthen unity and integration in response to the region’s growing challenges.
“There is no time for insularity or division,” Prime Minister Mottley said. “Our region must speak with one voice if we are to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.”
Assuming the role of incoming CARICOM Chair, Jamaica’s Prime Minister, the Honourable Andrew Holness, laid out a strategic vision for his six-month tenure. He identified public safety as a top priority, with a particular focus on dismantling criminal gang networks across the region. He also addressed issues relating to climate resilience, food security, and economic sustainability.
“We must confront the threat of organized crime, which undermines stability and development in our communities,” Prime Minister Holness stated. “Equally, we must strengthen our capacity to respond to climate-related events and secure food and energy supplies for our people.”
The three-day summit, running from July 6 to 8, 2025, features a series of plenary sessions and bilateral meetings aimed at promoting regional cooperation and advancing shared development goals. Discussions are expected to result in joint statements and action plans addressing key issues facing CARICOM member states and territories.
Premier Wheatley is scheduled to continue active engagement throughout the conference, contributing to discussions on security, climate adaptation, trade, and the role of Associate Members like the Virgin Islands in shaping regional policy.
