Premier David Burt travelled to Washington DC for a series of high-level meetings and engagements from 21 September to 25 September, accompanied by Ms. Karen Grissette, U.S. Consul General to Bermuda and leaders from the Association for Bermuda Insurers and Reinsurers.
This visit coincided with the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference, a gathering of legislators, senior policymakers, and industry leaders from the insurance and digital assets sectors.
Premier Burt hosted the inaugural Friends of Bermuda Breakfast reception at the Bermuda Washington D.C. office. The breakfast served as a key platform to reinforce Bermuda's position as a reputable business jurisdiction and to advance initiatives that enhance the island's economic landscape.
A pivotal aspect of the visit was the meeting at the Qatar Embassy. The Bermuda delegation received a warm welcome from Mrs Asma Al-Amri, Minister Plenipotentiary-Acting Deputy Chief of Mission, and other senior Qatari diplomats. The discussions centred on exploring avenues of collaboration and investment, opening a promising chapter in the relationship between Bermuda and Qatar.
Further strengthening Bermuda's international business ties, Premier Burt engaged in discussions at the U.S. Department of Commerce arranged by the US Consul General's office. These talks focused on expanding trade links between Bermuda and minority-owned businesses in the USA, highlighting the Premier's commitment to fostering strategic economic relationships.
In a cultural showcase, Premier Burt, along with Ms. Karen Grissette, U.S. Consul General to Bermuda, supported Bermudian artist Gherdai Hassell at the Mehari Sequar Gallery. Hassell's exhibit, inspired by Bermuda’s unique heritage and history, underscored the island's rich cultural legacy.
While in Washington, DC, the Premier also secured assistance from international IT experts in dealing with cyber-attack recovery and restoration to support Bermuda’s restoration efforts.