The Cabinet Office advised that the Premier, the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, met with the newly appointed US Consul General, Antoinette Hurtado, during an introductory visit following the start of her tenure in March.

The meeting provided an opportunity to reaffirm the enduring partnership between Bermuda and the United States. Discussions encompassed a range of shared priorities, including trade, national security, and the strengthening of economic ties. Both parties explored avenues to further align and enhance bilateral relations.

The Shiprider Agreement, signed in early March, was highlighted as a strong example of ongoing cooperation. The agreement aims to bolster joint efforts in addressing issues such as illegal immigration, drug smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal fishing within and around Bermuda’s territorial waters.

The Premier also raised concerns about proposed US policy changes that could have significant implications for Bermuda, highlighting, in particular, the potential economic impact of new port fees discussed during his recent visit to Washington, DC.

Premier Burt underscored how such measures could increase shipping costs and affect the cost of living for residents, while also noting broader concerns around the stability of Bermuda’s reinsurance sector and other key areas requiring ongoing dialogue and consideration.

The Premier said, “The Government welcomes the new U.S. Consul General, Antoinette Hurtado, to Bermuda. With over 20 years of experience as a Foreign Service Officer in the U.S. Department of State, and a career spanning numerous international postings—she began her tenure as Consul General in Bermuda this past March. Our objective is to remain a trusted ally, and we anticipate that U.S. policy decisions will fully consider the depth of our shared interests, the strength of our bilateral ties, and Bermuda’s strategic relevance.”

US Consul General, Hurtado said, “I want to thank Premier David Burt for his warm welcome. We had a fruitful conversation about our areas of shared interest including security, business, and trade.  The United States is Bermuda’s closest neighbor and we have a four-centuries long history and partnership.  I look forward to working with the Premier and Government of Bermuda officials to continue and strengthen that partnership and to enhance our already close ties.”