British OTs, UK Gov’t agree to a more collaborative ‘modern partnership’
This comes as some OT Governments and parliamentarians have over the years complained bitterly of colonial-style decision making from the UK on matters that impact OTs without consulting the people or their representatives.
Joint declaration between both sides
Now, the renewed partnership is being pushed as one more that is more suited to the 21st century and includes a plan to enhance transparency and support OTs to take on more responsibilities and accountability should they wish to do
This agreement was reached during the Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) meetings of November 14 and 15, 2023.
In a policy paper published today, December 14, 2023, by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) entitled ‘Joint Declaration of governments of the United Kingdom and British Overseas Territories: A Modern Partnership for a Stronger British family,’ it said the parties noted progress and challenges since the publication of the 2012 white paper – The Overseas Territories: Security, Success, and Sustainability.
It reaffirms that each UK Government Department is responsible for supporting the OTs as needed, within its areas of competence and expertise. “We acknowledge the political, economic, and technological shifts which have created a more complex international environment for the United Kingdom (UK) and British Overseas Territories to navigate. Against this backdrop, we reaffirm the deep, historic, and enduring partnership between the United Kingdom and the British Overseas Territories,” the paper noted.
Further, the paper detailed that the parties recognize and celebrate the diversity of the UK and each British Overseas Territory, its communities, and cultures, “We are family, united by shared values and working together to deliver for our peoples and overcome collective challenges. We reaffirm the unique and intricate bond between our communities.”
More transparency and bilateral relations
As such, as part of the declaration, the UK and OTs committed to; improving transparency and deepening bilateral partnerships; consult OTs on UK primary legislation that impacts them; and support OTs to take on more responsibilities where they wish to do so.
Commenting on the move, UK Minister for the Overseas Territories, David H. Rutley said, “The Overseas Territories are an important part of the British Family, and our shared values such as support for democracy and the rule of law underpin this close relationship.”
“Our new Joint Declaration sets out more clearly than ever how the UK and Overseas Territories will work closer together on the opportunities and challenges of the modern world.”
He said other commitments in the agreement include investigating improvements to how the UK provides financial support to OTs and agreeing to speak with one voice on the international stage, such as at the United Nations.
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