New British High Commissioner to SVG accredited

The Government of the United Kingdom has announced the appointment of Simon Mustard as the new British High Commissioner to St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the broader Eastern Caribbean. 

Mustard, who is resident in Barbados, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to fostering strong diplomatic relations in the region, a press release said. 

The new British High Commissioner expressed his delight at returning to the Caribbean, where he began his diplomatic career over 20 years ago in Belize. 

“I am thrilled to return to the Caribbean, a region that holds a special place in my diplomatic life. I look forward to getting to know the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and to working closely with regional governments to address shared challenges and opportunities,” he said. 

Mustard presented his credentials to Ralph Gonsalves, prime minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Thursday. 

The high commissioner then paid a courtesy call on Dame Susan Dougan, governor general, before visiting Kingstown Port Modernisation project, which is partyly funded by the UK.

The EC600 million port is the largest UK-supported project in the Eastern Caribbean and is  designed to provide essential climate-resilient infrastructure for economic activity in the country.

The United Kingdom has contributed 28 million pounds in grant funding towards the project, underscoring its commitment to sustainable development and regional resilience.

Mustard’s previous postings include assignments in Central America, Washington D.C., the Middle East, Africa, and London. 

He also served as British High Commissioner to both Sierra Leone and Malawi. Mustard holds a degree in international relations from the University of Aberdeen. 

As high commissioner, Mustard will focus on advancing key priorities for the UK’s engagement in the region, including security cooperation, economic growth, climate resilience, and sustainable development.