Select a region
Representatives from new governments in both Guernsey and Jersey have wasted little time in travelling south to the islands’ nearest neighbour to take part in talks focused on future collaboration.
Renewable energy, sea links and other connections between the Channel Islands, Normandy and Brittany were among the items discussed during talks in Paris.
External Relations Minister Kirsten Morel was Jersey's representative, joining Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq – who has responsibility for external relations in Guernsey – at talks hosted by the British Embassy.
French delegates taking part included regional MPs and Senators, the President of the Foreign Affairs Commission, the UK Ambassador to UNESCO, and the Irish Ambassador to France.
A joint release issued after the meeting stated that: "Topics of discussion encompassed connectivity and sea links, focusing on vital regional connections with Normandy and Brittany, renewable energy, and initiatives aimed at bolstering ties with the central administration in Paris."
Deputy Morel said: "Our discussions underscored the importance of regional co-operation between the Channel Islands and France and our joint commitment to further developing this collaboration.
"Additionally, we’ve engaged with principal political stakeholders in Paris discussing key areas of interest such as connectivity.
"This engagement allowed us to explore potential economic and commercial ties, working towards a sustainable and resilient future, for which France plays an important role.”
Deputy Le Tocq added: "The visit enabled discussion on a range of issues that are priorities for Guernsey, such as energy and connectivity, on which we have shared interests with France.
“I look forward to continuing to work closely with our sister island of Jersey as we continue to further develop this relationship with our closest European neighbour.”
Pictured top: Philippe Gosselin, member of the National Assembly of France, representing the Manche department; Deputy Kirsten Morel, Jersey's Economic Development Minister; Jean-Louis Bourlanges, President of the Foreign Affairs Commission in France; and Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq, Guernsey's External Relations Minister.
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.