Premier to visit UK to offer condolences to royal family
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has announced that he will be travelling to the United Kingdom to pay his condolences to the Queen’s family on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands.
In a statement yesterday, the Premier said the Virgin Islands joins the world in mourning the passing of Queen Elizabeth II who died at 96.
“On behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands, and on behalf of myself and family, I extend condolences to the Royal Family, British citizens around the world, and the Commonwealth Community on the Queen’s passing. I will be travelling to the United Kingdom to directly pay my respects and convey my condolences to the Government and people of the Virgin Islands. Let us pray for God’s Blessings upon her, and that she rests in Everlasting Peace,” Dr Wheatley said, adding that she was Britain’s longest-serving monarch.
“Her reign spanned generations. She was an iconic figure and an inspiration to millions, especially women, as her tenure, noble service and achievements defied and shattered the glass ceiling that was so prominent only a few decades ago,” Dr Wheatley said.
The Premier noted that many Virgin Islanders and residents who are old enough would remember her two visits to the territory.
“First in 1966, Her Majesty was accompanied by her husband, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Then again in 1977 when my grandfather, Chief Minister Dr the Honourable Willard Wheatley, had the honour of hosting her here in the territory,” the Premier said.
“The people of the Virgin Islands welcomed her visits to these shores and the opportunity to interact with her. Historians recall, in both visits, Her Majesty’s cool composure, confidence and charm as she mingled with residents at handicraft and agricultural exhibitions, the hospital, schools, the opening of the bridge named in her honour, and other places she visited. She made a lasting connection which has endured until today,” he added.
The Premier said Queen Elizabeth II leaves with the territory a legacy that reflects an unconquerable spirit. He described her as a monarch who was driven by her confidence in herself and her abilities.
He added that she will be remembered here in these Virgin Islands and around the world for her noble service to humankind.
“On behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands, and on behalf of myself and family, I extend condolences to the Royal Family, British citizens around the world, and the Commonwealth Community on the Queen’s passing. I will be travelling to the United Kingdom to directly pay my respects and convey my condolences to the Government and people of the Virgin Islands. Let us pray for God’s Blessings upon her, and that she rests in Everlasting Peace,” Dr Wheatley said, adding that she was Britain’s longest-serving monarch.
“Her reign spanned generations. She was an iconic figure and an inspiration to millions, especially women, as her tenure, noble service and achievements defied and shattered the glass ceiling that was so prominent only a few decades ago,” Dr Wheatley said.
The Premier noted that many Virgin Islanders and residents who are old enough would remember her two visits to the territory.
“First in 1966, Her Majesty was accompanied by her husband, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Then again in 1977 when my grandfather, Chief Minister Dr the Honourable Willard Wheatley, had the honour of hosting her here in the territory,” the Premier said.
“The people of the Virgin Islands welcomed her visits to these shores and the opportunity to interact with her. Historians recall, in both visits, Her Majesty’s cool composure, confidence and charm as she mingled with residents at handicraft and agricultural exhibitions, the hospital, schools, the opening of the bridge named in her honour, and other places she visited. She made a lasting connection which has endured until today,” he added.
The Premier said Queen Elizabeth II leaves with the territory a legacy that reflects an unconquerable spirit. He described her as a monarch who was driven by her confidence in herself and her abilities.
He added that she will be remembered here in these Virgin Islands and around the world for her noble service to humankind.
