Grand Cayman, Thursday, 23 February 2023

From the Office of the Premier

His Majesty King Charles III has conveyed his sentiments to the Cayman Islands Government following the visit of Their Royal Highnesses The Earl and Countess of Wessex this week.

The Earl of Wessex presented the letter to Hon. Premier Wayne Panton JP, MP on behalf of His Majesty, during a lunch hosted by the Premier on Little Cayman that focused on sustainability and climate resilience.

His Majesty mentioned how he, along with Queen Consort Camilla, share cheerful memories of their visit to the Cayman Islands in March 2019:

“My wife and I recall with great fondness the warmth of our welcome to the Cayman Islands in 2019 and how inspiring it was to see at first-hand the remarkable development of the Territory over the past few decades. Caymanians are rightly proud of their culture and heritage, their modern and dynamic community, together with their determination to protect their environment and grow their economy sustainably,” His Majesty stated.

His Majesty also spoke about the close, longstanding relationship between the Cayman Islands and the United Kingdom, and his hope for its growth and enhancement in future:

“The Cayman Islands, like all of our Overseas Territories, are much-loved and integral members of the British Family and I look forward to strengthening yet further our relationship in the years ahead.” His Majesty said.

Premier Panton expressed his gratitude to receive sentiments from His Majesty the King:

“On behalf of the Cayman Islands Government, it was a delight to receive the message from His Majesty King Charles III following the recent visit of Their Royal Highnesses, The Earl and Countess of Wessex,” said Premier Panton.

“I would also like to thank His Majesty for acknowledging Cayman’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable economic growth. The UK and the Cayman Islands face many challenges together in our position as a British Overseas Territory; and these visits further reinforce the agreement between us to work together and maintain this relationship based on mutual respect and partnership.” Premier Panton concluded.

Their Royal Highnesses concluded their visit yesterday, 22 February, after an eventful few days of engaging with Cayman’s youth, including at the YMCA, the Caribbean Central Marine Institute (CCMI) (of which His Royal Highness is a long-time patron), and the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Presentations.

The Countess of Wessex also supported and met with members of 100 Women in Finance in her capacity as Global Ambassador, and showed support for Cayman’s agricultural and sustainability programmes at events such as the Agriculture Show. His Royal Highness also spent time with the Cayman Islands Coast Guard (CICG) observing their maritime capabilities, inspected a guard of honour from the Cayman Islands Cadet Corps, and observed the Cayman Islands Regiment demonstrating their disaster resilience response.