United Kingdom Minister for the Overseas Territories Uma Kumaran met with members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Cabinet on Monday, September 7, as part of her first official visit to the territory since taking her new position.
Kumaran’s brief visit is focused on strengthening cooperation between the United Kingdom and the Turks and Caicos Islands, while giving the minister an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the territory’s priorities and challenges.
Hear briefly from the minister herself on the visit to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
During the visit, Kumaran was accompanied by Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Premier Charles Washington Misick OBE and members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Tactical Unit on a visit to the Dockyard area.
The Governor’s Office said the visit gave the Minister an on-the-ground perspective of the challenges associated with irregular migration, settlement and law enforcement operations.
Kumaran also received briefings from members of the National Security Council and senior operational leaders, including Acting Commissioner of Police Kendall Grant and Commanding Officer of the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Ennis Grant.
Discussions focused on internal, external and geopolitical threats affecting the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as progress in reducing crime and strengthening the Territory’s security capabilities.
During the visit, Kumaran held discussions with Governor Her Excellency, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick, Leader of the Opposition Hon. Edwin Astwood and members of Cabinet.
The meetings provided an opportunity for TCI leaders to engage directly with the UK minister on matters affecting the territory and the wider relationship between the Turks and Caicos Islands and the United Kingdom.
Among the key areas in discussions were national security, economic growth, resilience and regional developments. The talks also expected to explore ways of deepening cooperation between the UK and TCI in areas of mutual interest.
The trip marks Kumaran’s first visit to the Turks and Caicos Islands and her first overseas engagement since assuming her new role at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in July 2026.
