Premier Meets with Queen Elizabeth II
This year, Heads of Government of the Overseas Territories were given special audience with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in The Green Room at Windsor Castle.
Following the more formal presentation of each leader of the Overseas Territories and their partner, where applicable, each was afforded a more direct exchange on an individual basis.
The Premier’s discussion with Her Majesty was personal to Bermuda and began with their reflecting on her trip to the island last year. Her Majesty inquired about last week’s visit of the Duchess of Gloucester and the Presentation of Colours to the Bermuda Regiment and was assured the Duchess was warmly received by the residents of our Island. The exchange continued with pleasantries that ranged from the Premier’s current trip to the UK, the numbers attending the OTCC and a chuckle about Her Majesty’s corgis and their lack of affinity for cats. Her Majesty concluded by sending her best wishes for Bermuda and her people.
Of the audience Premier Cox said, “It is always a distinct honour to meet Heads of State and our unique relationship with the United Kingdom makes this introduction extra special. I found Her Majesty warm and relaxed and the dress she chose to wear for the meeting, aquamarine and green in colour, reminded one of Bermuda’s blue seas. I could not help but compliment her on her choice of colours and this brought a ready smile to her face. It indeed was a pleasant exchange and a fine afternoon.”
On behalf of the leaders, President of the Political Council of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA), Chief Minister, the Hon. Reuben T. Meade (Government of Montserrat), gave the official thank you to Her Majesty for her gracious invitation and hosting of the Overseas Territories members. As part of the thank you, he expressed congratulations to her on the engagement of her grandson, Prince William, whose announcement had been made just prior to the meetings. Also, on their behalf, he wished her and her family all the best.
Following the visit at Windsor Castle, Premier Cox attended a reception hosted by the Cayman Islands and presided by their Leader, Premier Mckeeva Bush. As he acknowledged the Cayman Island Governor, senior leaders such as Premier O’Neal of the British Virgin Islands and Chief Minister Hughes of Anguilla, he also welcomed the Paula Cox as the newest Premier present.
Sorry to be petty here but come on, you’re meeting the Queen. AT LEAST button up your jacket!
There we go, The Queen of Bermuda meeting the Queen of Bermuda…and it happened so fast^^