19 September 2018
His Excellency Mr Manuel Lobo Antunes, the Ambassador of Portugal, will make an official visit to Jersey tomorrow (Thursday 20 September) to Friday 21 September.
The visit will focus on strengthening and maintaining links between Jersey and Portugal, particularly in respect of Brexit and Jersey’s future relationship with the EU. The visit will also emphasise the value of the Portuguese community’s contribution to Jersey’s economy, society and culture and Jersey’s commitment to protecting their interests.
On the first day of the visit, the Ambassador will have an introductory meeting and briefing with the Bailiff of Jersey, Sir William Bailhache. He will then have the opportunity to meet with finance representatives at the Jersey Financial Services Commission. In the evening, His Excellency will attend a formal dinner at the Town Hall hosted by the Bailiff.
On Friday morning, the Ambassador will attend a Government meeting with Chief Minister, Senator John Le Fondré, and the Minister for External Relations, Senator Ian Gorst.
Senator Gorst said: “I am delighted to welcome the Ambassador to Jersey. We will be considering how we can continue to develop the already strong links between Jersey and Portugal, and we will discuss the impact of Brexit on members of the Portuguese community who live here.
“This government has been clear that we continue to recognise the important contribution made by EU nationals to Island life. We have assured EU citizens living here that they will be able to apply to remain in the Island by taking advantage of the Jersey EU Settlement Scheme.”
The Ambassador will also visit Jersey Finance to learn about Jersey’s role as an international finance centre.
In the afternoon, His Excellency will then have the opportunity to meet members of Jersey’s Portuguese community, including students and teachers at Le Rocquier School. He will also discuss educational links between Jersey and Portugal with Minister for Education, Senator Tracey Vallois and representatives from Children, Young People, Education and Skills.
On Friday evening, the Ambassador will visit the Portuguese Honorary Consulate and will attend a reception for the Portuguese community at the Mayfair Hotel.
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