Premier Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Connolly (centre) stands with fellow UK Overseas Territories leaders at the start of the first Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) Plenary Session today Wednesday, 20 November 2024

(London, United Kingdom – 20 November 2024)- Cayman Islands Premier Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Connolly opened today’s session of the Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) Plenary by offering remarks on behalf of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA). She expressed her desire for amicable and transparent discussions which set the tone for the day’s proceedings.

There are presently five principles, referred to as the “Doughty Principles” that the UK Minister for the Overseas Territories Stephen Doughty, MP has set out to guide the UK-Overseas Territory relationship:
a. Devolution and democratic autonomy for the OTs, and consistency on the principles of partnership and engagement.
b. Listening to the OTs, following the principle of “nothing about you without you.”
c. Partnership with the OTs based on mutual respect and inclusion, applying to all UK Government departments. 
Rights come with responsibilities, including the responsibility to uphold our common values.
d. Good governance and ensuring proper democratic accountability and regulation.
e. Defending the OTs’ security, autonomy and rights, including the right of self-determination.

The first plenary session on resetting the relationship, began by setting out the new UK Government’s approach to the OTs and identifiying areas for improvement. Discussions were held on how fundamental structures, such as constitutions, impact the way OTs interact with the UK government and how to future-proof relationships between the UK and its OTs relationships.

Security and irregular migration was the focus of the second plenary session and discussions were held on common threats facing OTs, as well as the opportunities for support and collaboration between the OTs and with the UK.

The day continued with a session focused on climate and environment to gain a better collective understanding of the joint environment and climate priorities and how the UK can work in partnership to address the concerns that were raised.

During the day’s final session, discussions were held on the global economic outlook and the need for economic diversification, building resilience and attracting investment in OT economies.  Financial Secretary Mr Ken Jefferson contributed to the discussions during the session.  

At the conclusion of the JMC session, Premier O’Connor-Connolly, accompanied by Attorney General Hon. Samuel Bulgin attended a meeting for OT Leaders hosted by UK Speaker of the House of Common Sir Lindsay Hoyle. Sir Lindsay, a devoted advocate for the Overseas Territories, recently visited the Cayman Islands in July.  

The Premier’s evening ended with a reception for Leaders of Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies hosted at the Speaker’s House by Sir Lindsay in celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the UK Overseas Territories Association.
 
The second day of the JMC will reconvene tomorrow, 21 November.