Her Excellency Governor Jane Owen’s Statement on Venezuela

We are closely monitoring developments in Venezuela following last weekend’s U.S. military action and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.  I have discussed the situation with Premier Ebanks and subsequently updated the Cabinet.  The UK is in regular contact with the US Government, our other international partners and regional authorities.  The British Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has spoken with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasising the UK’s commitment to upholding international law and the need for a peaceful and stable democracy in Venezuela. We continue to track developments and will provide updates through official Government channels.

The Governor’s Office also remain in close touch with UK departments responsible for aviation safety and international travel advice.  The Civil Aviation Authority of the Cayman Islands is monitoring and managing traffic in accordance with international regulations, and our airports and ports are functioning normally. Travellers should, as always, check with their airline for the latest flight status.

I wish to reassure residents and visitors that the Cayman Islands continue to be safe and secure. As I said in my statement before Christmas, security remains a paramount priority within the United Kingdom’s relationship with its Overseas Territories.  The UK continues to work in partnership with Caribbean Governments across the region to enhance security, prevent crime and stem the flow of drugs, illicit money and irregular migration.  Those commitments remain unchanged, and our agencies here in Cayman continue to pursue strategies with this united objective.