A delegation of Government and private sector officials from the British Virgin Islands has completed a historic fact-finding mission to the Gulf region, which included key meetings with stakeholders. 

The two-day mission ended yesterday.

This was the first time that a group from the British Virgin Islands has undertaken such a visit to the Gulf region and reflects the world class status that Dubai now holds in the global financial services arena, a statement from GIS stated

Headed by Lorna Smith, Director of the British Virgin Islands International Financial Centre (IFC) and Director of the International Affairs Secretariat in the Office of the Premier, the delegation undertook high level, key meetings with Dubai’s financial community as well as hosted a private seminar entitled ‘ Opportunities for Growth in Financial Services.’

The delegation included Honourable Elvis J. Harrigan, Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office Rosalie Adams, IFC Chief Operations Officer Sheri Ortiz, and Director of the BVI London Office Dawn Smith.  The delegation was keen to understand how Dubai has developed itself as the Middle East’s leading financial centre as well as to share its own experience as an established offshore financial centre.

Prior to the visit, Smith, said: “We are very excited about our planned visit to Dubai and look forward to seeing first hand this incredibly dynamic and progressive Emirate and to understanding how it has created such a dominant position on the global stage.”

She had told the GIS, that not only does the group want to learn more about the financial services industry in Dubai, but were also delighted at being able to meet the major players and individuals in the sector.

“We are also keen to learn about the infrastructure development, the education system and see some of the amazing projects with which Dubai has become synonymous,” she had stated.

Dr Nasser Saidi, Chief Economist of the Dubai International Financial Centre, who hosted meetings with the delegation, was delighted to welcome the British Virgin Islands delegation to Dubai and had looked forward to discussions with them.

He had also noted that the British Virgin Islands International Financial Centre is globally recognised as a long established and experienced offshore hub and Dubai was keen to hear more about their operations and meet some of their key officials.

The British Virgin Islands Seminar was held on March 31, 2008 at the Burj Al Arab. Areas of discussion focused on corporate and investment business and trusts and estate planning.

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