Foreign Office Minister James Duddridge will stress the importance of a modern partnership based on shared interests during his first visit to Barbados.

The F.O. Minister will be in Bridgetown next week for the first time as Minister of State for the Caribbean. In meetings with government Ministers, Mr Duddridge will discuss the strong links between the UK and Barbados and explore further co-operation in areas of shared interest, including the promotion of bilateral trade and investment, tackling the shared threat from drugs and organised crime and on renewable energy.

Speaking ahead of his visit, Mr Duddridge said: “The relationship between Barbados and the United Kingdom is strong and vibrant. It is rooted in our long-standing economic, political and cultural connections, our shared values, and the deep links between our nationals. I am delighted to have the opportunity to visit Barbados and witness at firsthand how our two countries are working together to address a range of global challenges”.

During his visit Mr Duddridge will call on Barbadian Prime Minister Freundel Stuart to discuss shared foreign policy priorities. He will also have talks with Leader of the Opposition, Mia Mottley and speak to local businesses at the BIBA International Business Week reception.

The British Government is looking to encourage greater resilience to the impacts of climate change by the development of low carbon alternatives in the Caribbean. The wider use of electric cars will be one delivery mechanism for this objective.