Barbados and United Kingdom share strong bond

Barbados and the United Kingdom (UK) share a strong and enduring bond, and both countries have expressed a desire to further strengthen those ties.

That sentiment was echoed during an event to mark the 76th official birthday of Britain’s King Charles III, held last Friday 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 the President of Barbados Dame Sandra Mason.

Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Sandra Husbands, noted that the celebration reflected the deep-rooted history between the two nations, characterised by a friendship that spans a wide range of sectors.

“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 also praised King Charles for his “thoughtful” stewardship of the Commonwealth of Nations and his lifelong commitment to environmental preservation. She expressed thanks for the UK’s continued support in building institutional capacity in areas such as governance, security, education, and climate resilience.

Looking to the future, Minister Husbands said Barbados is “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,” she added.

The Princess Royal also spoke of the ties between the two nations, describing the enduring friendship as being based on historical, cultural, and spiritual connections that have lasted for centuries.

“As my brother reaffirmed in 2021 when Barbados became a republic, there are myriad connections between the people of our countries through which flow admiration and affection, cooperation and opportunity, strengthening and enriching all of us,” she said. “And, as Commonwealth partners, we do have a unique bond, and that helps us to understand where our future can take us…. 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.”

New British High Commissioner Simon Mustard echoed those views, emphasising that the relationship between the two countries is 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, Dame Sandra, The Princess Royal, Minister Husbands, and High Commissioner Mustard toasted King Charles, 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. (BGIS)