Overseas businesses are excited about the direction Bermuda is heading, David Burt told the House of Assembly.

The Premier gave a report about his trips with tourism minister Jamahl Simmons to New York, where they took part in a business luncheon, and Washington, DC, where they attended the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference.

Mr Burt said of the New York visit: “I am pleased to report that there is an excitement about the new direction in which Bermuda is heading and a keen receptiveness to our message that Bermuda is open for business and investment.”

The pair attended a luncheon of 24 guests featuring investment professionals, wealth managers and venture capitalists, including representatives of Chinese State Companies and wealth managers of Gulf States families.

Mr Burt said: “Our discussions covered a wide range of areas including hospitality, technology, agriculture, energy and transportation.”

He said they also met with leading law firm Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP, Rosecliff Ventures, Wafra Investment Advisory Group Inc., Ridgewood Investment and Astor Investment Management. Mr Burt said: “Such meetings are a critical component of our efforts to grow and diversify our economy and to create jobs. In order to do so, we must increase our international profile and interest in Bermuda as a well regulated jurisdiction in which to conduct business.

“The visit provided an opportunity for us to advance our agenda, including the creation of a tech hub at Southside, and encouraging the development of start-ups based in Bermuda.”

The Washington conference came at the invitation of US Congressman, G.K. Butterfield.

Mr Burt said: “The Congressional Black Caucus events presented an excellent opportunity to connect with lawmakers and influencers in Washington, DC.

“We have committed to reopening the Government of Bermuda’s Washington, DC Office and this visit not only enabled us to renew relationships but also to meet with key individuals who are well placed to assist us in that reopening.

“As was the case with the New York visit, this visit too furthers our efforts to communicate that Bermuda is open for business and investment. We are committed to growing and diversifying our economy and to the creation of jobs for the benefit of all Bermuda.”

• To read Mr Burt’s statement in full, click on the PDF under “Related Media”