Communications and Works Minister Julian Fraser is leading the territory’s delegation to the European Union Overseas Countries and Territories Forum in Noumea, New Caledonia, which ends on Friday.

“Given the EU’s growing significance and importance to the future development of the territory in areas such as financial services and environment, and given the territory’s current official role as deputy regional authorising officer for the 10th European Development Fund of the EU, the territory’s attendance and contributions in the discussions are critical,” Mr. Fraser said in a press release. The minister is representing Premier Ralph O’Neal at the forum.

Speaking at the OCTs Ministerial Conference, which was held on Monday, Mr. Fraser stressed the territory’s commitment to working with the OCT Association and the EU. Along with other government heads and their representatives, he also signed a joint position paper on the Virgin Islands’ behalf.

The document sets out the framework terms and conditions the EU will use to prepare the new Overseas Association Decision, according to Government Information Services.

 

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