Stronger UK Connections Noted at End of JMC Plenary

By: Takiyah Smith

The Joint Ministerial Council Plenary concluded today Thursday 21 November after two days of high-level discussions  between the United Kingdom and its Overseas Territories.

During the plenary, Illicit Finance & Sanctions and Beneficial Ownership were discussed.  Premier O’Connor Connolly reaffirmed the Cayman Islands position noting that we are balancing transparency with privacy rights by requiring access to beneficial ownership information only where there is a legitimate interest.”

Other sessions included presentations by UK Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State for Early Education as well as Public Health & Prevention which opened discussions on human development issues in OTs.

The overall outcomes of the JMC Plenary will be shared by the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office through a joint communique within the coming days.

Premier Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Connolly noted that the atmosphere and tone of the JMC Plenary was positive and respectful which created the opportunity to clarify details on matters of concern to the Cayman Islands. Premier O’Connor Connolly stated, “Throughout our week in London, we have both solidified existing connections with fellow UKOT leaders and created new partnerships with members of the UK government beyond the FCDO. We trust that we will be able to maintain these relationships by communicating often on matters of common interest and proactively managing concerns.”

Prime Minister Kier Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy joined the proceedings in the afternoon for a special meet and greet with OT Leaders and reaffirmed the new government’s commitment to its Overseas Territories.

Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) Hon. Stephen Doughty hosted a reception to close the Joint Ministerial Council Plenary for all UKOT delegations. Premier O’Connor-Connolly offered remarks at the Closing reception held in the historic Lorcano Suite, during which she thanked Minister Doughty for his commitment and enthusiasm to strengthen the relationship with the Overseas Territories and proposed rotating the hosting of the JMC between London and the Overseas Territories.

Her Excellency the Governor Jane Owen also attended the JMC along with other Governors of the Overseas Territories.

The Premier will remain in London to host Cayman Day events on Saturday, 23rd November.