Special Envoy Benito Wheatley, Premier Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley and UK Ambassador H.E. James Kariuki. Photo: Provided

While at the UN meeting, the Premier petitioned the UN C-24 Committee for what he called "climate justice" for countries that remain vulnerable to Climate Change, and for the UK to remove its reserved Order in Council to suspend the VI constitution should the country not implement CoI Reforms by its new August deadline. Photo: Facebook/File

The two met during a courtesy call on June 10, 2024, at the offices of the UK Permanent Representation to the UN in New York.

Among other things, they discussed climate change and the impact of recent torrential rains on the islands; UK support as a development partner of SIDS; the British Virgin Islands prospects for accessing climate finance; UK support for the participation of Overseas Territories (OTs) in UN fora; and governance reform.

Virgin Islands Premier Wheatley also thanked Ambassador Kariuki for his instrumental role in securing a visiting mission by the UN Special Committee on Decolonization (C-24), to assess the situation on the ground in the VI.

Meeting constructive - Premier Wheatley

“My meeting with Ambassador Kariuki was constructive as always. He is a highly respected partner and voice of reason and pragmatism in UK-BVI relations.” Premier Wheatley shared. 

He added, “We share the view that there are opportunities for the BVI and UK to strengthen our relationship, especially as we consider how we respond to climate change, drive sustainable development and build a modern partnership that is fit for purpose in the 21st century. More dialogue will be needed for progress to be made on these fronts.” 

While at the UN meeting, the Premier petitioned the UN C-24 Committee for what he called "climate justice" for countries that remain vulnerable to Climate Change, and for the UK to remove its reserved Order in Council to suspend the VI constitution should the country not implement Government reforms by its new August deadline.

At the courtesy call, the Premier was joined by special Envoy Mr. E. Benito Wheatley and Ambassador Kariuki was joined by Mr. Philip Beer.