CAYMAN TO HOST 2027 REGIONAL UK OVERSEAS TERRITORIES LEADERS MEETING

The Cayman Islands will host the 2027 session of the Caribbean Overseas Territories Leaders Caucus. The decision was made at this year’s meeting in Bermuda, where the British Overseas Territories in the region agreed on the priority issues they want addressed on the agenda for the upcoming Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) with the UK government in November.

Hon. Premier Andre Ebanks, who headed the Cayman Islands Government to the Bermuda meeting, said agreeing to host the 2027 summit reflects Cayman’s ongoing commitment to regional collaboration and partnership.

Hosted by Bermuda’s Premier David Burt, the meeting brought together leaders from Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and the Cayman Islands to align shared priorities ahead of November’s UK Joint Ministerial Council.

“Although the Overseas Territories leaders are frequently in contact, coming together for face-to-face discussions deepens our shared understanding of the issues and opportunities we are managing, both collectively and individually,” Premier Ebanks said.

Discussions focused on where the Territories can advocate more effectively together, including climate resilience, health and social care, financial services, trade, reducing the cost of living, and greater participation in regional and international organisations.

“By strengthening collaboration and identifying shared priorities, the Territories are working to ensure their collective interests are clearly represented on the international stage,” an official statement noted.

It was emphasised that reaffirming the fundamental right of self-determination under the UN Charter remained a priority. “Leaders emphasised that the Overseas Territories remain strongest when acting together to advance their collective interests internationally.”

The Caucus was described as providing a vital platform to address common issues, exchange policy experiences, and agree on unified positions.

“Our territories are unique, and our voices are stronger together. Today’s discussions focused on the issues that matter most to our people: safeguarding our right to self-determination, collaborating on financial services and trade, building climate and hurricane resilience, and establishing a modern, respectful partnership with the United Kingdom built on genuine consultation. Therefore, the Cayman Islands and the other Overseas Territories go the JMC in November well prepared, Premier Ebanks stated.