Representatives from Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, La Manche and Normandy travelled to Jersey to review and celebrate the Channel Islands’ ties with France, and sign a new three-year Memorandum of Understanding.
The MoU reaffirmed governmental links, and other connections like economic development, tourism, education and marine renewable energy.
The 30th anniversary of the Maison de la Normandie et de la Manche was also being marked, during a ceremony inside the Jersey States Chamber.
P&R president Lindsay de Sausmarez said the MoU cemented formal links for a further three years and ensured that Guernsey could continue to build on the strong foundations of historic and cultural links with Norman neighbours.
‘It will help us respond more effectively to shared challenges and opportunities, including new developments in the UK-EU relationship that affect Guernsey, climate change and the energy transition, and trade and travel matters,’ she said.
La Manche president Jean Morin said the conference was a chance for all parties to talk, specifically about fishing and maritime links. It was also a special event, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the cooperation agreement. He described 30 years of the region's retail presence in Jersey as ‘a true link between our territories’.
‘Today, we are measuring how far we have come. This agreement has strengthened our ties in areas as diverse as education, culture, tourism, energy transition, and the environment.’
Normandy region president Herve Morin said he was delighted that the Channel Islands would be actively participating in the celebrations marking the 1,000th anniversary of the birth of William the Conqueror in 2027.
‘The Normandy Region aims to create a popular, artistic and cultural event on a European scale, bringing together the major regions that share the Norman heritage,’ he said.
Senior political representation at the summit is why this week's States meeting starts today.
You need to be logged in to comment. If you had an account on our previous site, you can migrate your old account and comment profile to this site by visiting this page and entering the email address for your old account. We'll then send you an email with a link to follow to complete the process.