MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Overseas Territories meeting begins in London with a speech from Minister Simmonds

Minister Simmonds will also open a major UK/OTs business forum on Thursday

The annual Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) which brings together political leaders from the Overseas Territories and UK Ministers takes off in London on Tuesday, hosted by the FCO Minister for the Overseas Territories Mark Simmonds MP.

 The JMC is the principle forum for reviewing and implementing the shared strategy for promoting the security and good governance of the Territories and their sustainable economic and social development.

This year’s JMC will focus on economic growth and diversification; attracting investment; employment and vocational education; renewable energy; international financial services regulation; and the relationship between the Territories and the European Union.

The Council will review progress made on the commitments from the 2012 Council and discuss and agree future priorities. BOT representatives will also have meetings on health; the environment; visas and passports; and criminal justice issues.

Speaking ahead of the meeting Foreign Office Minister for the Overseas Territories Mark Simmonds said he was delighted to welcome the leaders of the Overseas Territories to the second Joint Ministerial Council.

” We have achieved much by working in partnership towards our shared vision for the Territories as vibrant and flourishing communities, in line with our 2012 White Paper of the Territories.

“Jobs and economic growth are fundamental to building safe, successful and sustainable territories. This year’s JMC will focus on agreeing practical steps for the UK and Overseas Territories to work together to achieve that goal.”

Simmonds will also open a major UK-Overseas Territories Business Forum on 28 November in London. The event will bring together for the first time all the OTs with UK businesses and investors of all sized to explore the numerous exciting investment opportunities available for the Territories.

The Falkland Islands are represented by a numerous delegation that includes Members of the Legislative Assembly Ian Hansen and Roger Edwards, Governor Nigel Haywood, head of the Falklands' government London office Sukey Cameron and Jamie Fotheringham (Head of Policy).