Last week (May 15), the Minister of Home Affairs, the Hon. Alexa Lightbourne, JP, MP, was pleased to have an opportunity to meet with the newly appointed US Consul General, Ms. Antoinette Hurtado.

The meeting underscored the enduring relationship between Bermuda and the US covering a range of topics of mutual interest. During the meeting, Minister Lightbourne and Consul General Hurtado discussed several key initiatives, including the continuation and expansion of NASA’s educational programmes in Bermuda. These programmes have previously included space training for Bermudian children and teachers.

Minister Lightbourne also highlighted the success of the teacher training programmes in Williamsburg, Virginia, where local educators have gained insights into the shared history of Bermuda and the US. This initiative, supported by the US Consulate, the Bermuda Government, and the Babcock American History Scholarship, has been instrumental in fostering educational and cultural ties between the two countries.

In addition, the meeting touched on renewable energy initiatives. The Minister shared details about the proposed Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and the opportunities for US companies to participate in Bermuda’s energy sector.

Minister Lightbourne who was encouraged by the meeting said, “Our discussions with Consul General Hurtado were incredibly productive. We are excited about the potential for continued collaboration with the United States on educational and energy initiatives. These partnerships are vital for the growth and development of Bermuda, and we look forward to building on our strong relationship with the US.”

And Consul General Hurtado said, “The United States and Bermuda collaborate on a wide range of security, economic, educational, and other initiatives. My meeting with Minister Lightbourne reiterated our close partnership and shared interests, and I look forward to strengthening that relationship and exploring new areas for cooperation.”

The public will be aware that Ms. Hurtado arrived in Bermuda on March 27, to take up her US Consul General posting.