TCI, Bahamas Reignite Maritime Boundaries Talks

The Turks and Caicos Islands, in collaborative with the UK Government, has resumed negotiations to finalize the maritime boundaries with neighbors The Bahamas, according to a news release from the National Security Secretariat.

The Delegation and their Bahamian Counterpart discuss the Maritime Boundaries between the two countries.

These discussions, which the secretariat said were held between August 9 and 10, marked a significant step in addressing issues left unresolved from the early 1990s.

“The talks, which commenced in 1992, culminated in a technical agreement reached in 1996. However, the maritime boundaries were not ratified at that time. Recognizing the importance of this matter, both parties have reconvened to address this historical challenge and work towards a definitive resolution,” the news release clarified.

According to the secretariat, the Turks and Caicos Islands and The Bahamas have shared a history of close collaboration and partnership, extending beyond the realm of maritime boundaries.

“This partnership has been exemplified through joint efforts in border enforcement and other areas of mutual interest. The deep-rooted ties and cultural affinities between these islands further underscore the significance of concluding the maritime boundary delimitations,” the news release further stated.

THE TCI DELEGATION: (From Left to Right): Edward Atcherley-Symes, Maritime Boundaries and Ocean Science Desk Officer, FCDO; Fiona Bloor – Law of the Sea, UK Hydrographic Office; Khalila Astwood-Tatum- Deputy Attorney General, TCI; Dr. Virginia Clerveaux, Deputy Secretary, National Security Office, TCI; Thecla Joseph- Director of Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, TCI; Gavin Watson- Legal Counsellor (Head of UK Delegation & Lead Negotiator), FCDO; Rebecca Fabrizi - Charge de Affairs – UK High Commission, Bahamas; Rachel Lewis – Assistant Legal Adviser, Ocean and Overseas Territories Team, Legal Directorate, FCDO; Adam Ashton - Law of the Sea, UK Hydrographic Office; and Wesley Clerveaux, Permanent Secretary, (Head of TCI delegation), TCI.

It added: “As negotiations resume, the parties are committed to engaging in open and constructive discussions to achieve a fair and sustainable solution that benefits both territories. This renewed dialogue reflects the mutual understanding of the importance of clearly defined maritime boundaries to ensure the continued prosperity and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands and The Bahamas.”

Meanwhile, the representatives of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the UK have expressed their optimism for a successful outcome.

“They are dedicated to upholding the principles of cooperation, diplomacy, and mutual respect throughout the negotiation process,” the news release further pointed out.

It concluded that all parties to the negotiations were confident that by working together, they would be able to reach an agreement that could contribute to both countries' security stability and economic development. The meetings took place August 9th & 10th, 2023.