Important topics for all at summit
BREXIT complications, transport links and renewable energy were all on the agenda at the annual political summit between the Channel Islands and regions of northern France.
The annual get-together between Guernsey, Jersey, La Manche, and Normandy has been held since 2015 when representatives from each jurisdiction meet to explore how they can work together.
‘It was a great pleasure to host the annual summit,’ said Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq, who has responsibility for external relations on the Policy & Resources Committee.
‘As neighbours, our jurisdictions share many of the same challenges, including the continuing need to manage regulatory changes post-Brexit, the mitigation of climate change and corresponding changes in energy production. Our annual summits are an excellent opportunity to share our experiences and seek to work cooperatively on matters which affect us all.’
Deputy Chief Minister of Jersey, Kirsten Morel, said that meeting face-to face was an excellent opportunity to identify how the islands and French regions could cooperate and work together to address future challenges. Among the topics he said were discussed were customs and immigration, culture and energy.
‘All very important topics for all participants in the summit,’ he said.
‘It is Jersey’s ambition to deepen our economic and cultural ties to our closest neighbours, and this summit has been a fabulous opportunity to build relationships and explore opportunities for us to work together. The fact that we are able to meet regularly is testament to our shared interests and history – something that we are rightly proud of and keen to develop at every opportunity.’
