Minister for Exiting the European Union Robin Walker and Foreign Office Minister Lord Ahmad today (Wednesday, 12 July) met leaders and representatives from the Overseas Territories to discuss Brexit following the triggering of Article 50 in March.
Attendees were updated on the government’s ongoing preparations for EU negotiations and action taken since the inaugural Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council on European Negotiations in February.
Leaders and representatives discussed the areas of priority for their territories and ministers reaffirmed the UK government commitment to ensure the interests of the Overseas Territories are taken into account as the UK prepares to leave the EU.
Speaking after the meeting, Minister for Exiting the European Union Robin Walker said:
“Negotiations to leave the European Union are now underway, and we are working hard to deliver a deal that works for everyone including our friends in the Overseas Territories.
“We have engaged extensively with the Overseas Territories already and will continue to make sure their interests are taken into account as the UK leaves the EU.”
Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon said:
“The Overseas Territories are integral to what defines Britain on the global stage and to our influence across the world. I look forward to continuing engagement with the Territories on the key challenges they face as a result of Brexit and to work collaboratively on the great opportunities that lie ahead.”
Leaders and representatives from the following Overseas Territories attended the half-day conference in London:
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Anguilla
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Bermuda
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British Virgin Islands
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Cayman Islands
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Falkland Islands
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Montserrat
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Pitcairn Islands
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St Helena
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Turks and Caicos Islands
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Tristan da Cunha
Gibraltar also attended the Council as an observer. The UK-Gibraltar JMC on EU Negotiations will take place on 17 July.
