Barbados and the United Kingdom (UK) share a strong bond, and both countries are keen to further develop those ties.
Those comments were echoed during an event to mark the 76th official birthday of Britain’s King Charles III, [recently] at BenMar, the official residence of the British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean.
Specially invited guests included the King’s sister, Her Royal Highness Anne, The Princess Royal, and President of Barbados, Her Excellency The Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason.
Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Sandra Husbands, noted that the event reflected the shared history between the two countries, with an enduring friendship and bond that has spanned many areas.
“Barbados proudly transitioned to a parliamentary republic in 2021. And yet, the bonds between our countries remain strong, characterised by common interests, inherited institutions, and longstanding cooperation. Sports remain a powerful thread in the fabric of our relationship….
“Today, our collaboration is underpinned by diverse trade linkages, governed by the CARIFORUM – UK Economic Partnership Agreement, and by a dynamic tourism sector that brings our people closer together. We look forward to expanding the opportunities for investment that would contribute to economic growth and prosperity for our people and businesses,” Minister Husbands stated.
She commended His Majesty for his “thoughtful” stewardship of the Commonwealth of Nations and his lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship, as she expressed thanks for the UK’s continued assistance in institutional capacity for governance and security, education, and climate resiliency.
In terms of fostering new areas of collaboration, she indicated that Barbados was “actively seeking to deepen collaboration with the United Kingdom through technical cooperation and scientific exchange. These are the partnerships that will drive innovation and growth in the decades to come.”
Speaking also about the bonds between Barbados and the UK, The Princess Royal noted that the enduring friendship between the UK and Barbados was based on historical, cultural and spiritual ties, which have bonded the two nations together for centuries.
“As my brother reaffirmed in 2021 when Barbados became a republic, there are a myriad connections between the people of our countries through which flow admiration and affection, cooperation and opportunity, strengthening and enriching all of us … And, as Commonwealth partners, we do have a unique bond, and that helps us to understand where our future can take us. But it is important to remember our past….
“And as we look to the future, not just for the United Kingdom and Barbados, but for the whole of the Commonwealth. It is clear that meaningful progress can only be achieved through partnerships. And I am delighted that we work together to strengthen climate resilience, build peace and security and grow mutual prosperity,” the Princess Royal stated.
The new British High Commissioner, Simon Mustard, concurred, adding that the relationship between the two countries was built on deep ties, shared values and mutual respect. “I’m confident that this partnership will continue to grow in the coming years, from strength to strength,” he remarked.
During the event, President Mason, The Princess Royal, Minister Husbands, and High Commissioner Mustard toasted His Majesty King Charles III, as they wished him a happy birthday and good health.
The British monarch celebrates two birthdays: his actual birthday is on November 14, 1948, while the official birthday of the sovereign is celebrated every year in June.