U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – Governor Albert Bryan Jr. hosted the weekly briefing Monday from Government House on St. Croix, during which he previewed the rescheduled meeting with BVI Premier Natalio Wheatley, which will take place on Friday, March 7, 2025.

Governor Bryan said he plans to have an open and candid conversation about the proposed increases on U.S. Virgin Islands-based charter yacht operations in the BVI and to obtain an equitable resolution.

“Our people are family. Our economies are intertwined. And our success has always been built on a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect,” Governor Bryan said, adding that he recognizes that the BVI is seeking to build its industry.

“However, when those efforts come at the detriment of the U.S. Virgin Islands’ industry, we must address them with respect, sensitivity, and, above all, substance. This is not how families treat each other, nor is it equitable.”

Governor Bryan said he remains steadfast in his commitment to working collaboratively with BVI officials to find a path forward that benefits both territories.

“During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the BVI needed critical assistance, we did not hesitate to stand up and advocate for them. Because that is what true partners do. That is what family does,” he said.

Additionally, Governor Bryan reflected on the week he spent in Washington DC attending the Interagency Group on Insular Areas 2025 meeting at the Department of Interior, as well as the National Governor’s Administration meeting. Governor Bryan said during his trip to Washington he had the opportunity to continue lobbying efforts to advance the administration’s federal policy priorities, including the permanent extension of the rum cover-over tax rate, the safe reopening of the refinery on St. Croix, and the establishment of a special visa waiver program to strengthen the territory’s tourism industry and support ongoing recovery efforts.

In his remarks, Governor Bryan recognized Virgin Islands History Month, which he said is a time to reflect on who we are, where we come from, and the impact we continue to make. “The history of the Virgin Islands is not just local—it is global,” he said. “Our people have shaped industries, advanced knowledge, and contributed to the world in ways that deserve recognition.”

Governor Bryan remembered David Hamilton Jackson for championing free press and democracy, Dr. George F. Tyson, for dedicating his life to uncovering the hidden stories of our past, and Alton Adams, who made history as the U.S. Navy’s first Black bandmaster.

“The next generation of Virgin Islanders will build on this foundation, shaping the future with the same ingenuity and resilience as those who came before them and our administration is laser-focused on ensuring that we put the things in place to invest in that,” Governor Bryan said. 

Governor Bryan congratulated Kruz Schembri-McCord, who this past weekend made history, bringing home the gold medal in fencing in the men’s junior individual epee division at the 2025 Junior Pan American Championships in Paraguay.

Governor Bryan provided an update on the government’s contract with VIGL to repair and develop the Randall Doc James Racetrack on St. Croix. (See separate release)

In closing, Governor Bryan welcomed the men and women of the Virgin Islands Army National Guard’s 661st Engineer Utilities Detachment home after a nine-month deployment.

“After nine months of dedicated service in defense of our nation, you have returned to the warm embrace of your families, the loving arms of your friends, and the deep gratitude of the entire Virgin Islands community. Today, we celebrate not only your return but the strength, courage, and sacrifice that define your service,” he said.

The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the Territory’s people, infrastructure and future through transparency, stabilizing the economy, restoring trust in the government and ensuring that recovery projects are completed as quickly as possible. Visit transparency.vi.gov

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