Sir John Swan was charismatic and comfortable anywhere in Bermuda and around the world.

He led Bermuda during the boon days of a thriving economy and vibrant international business and tourism activities.

Sir John’s time as premier included the cusp of the end of the Cold War, a time when Bermuda, along with the rest of the world, was making the transition from what was to what would be.

Thanks to Sir John and those he surrounded himself with, Bermuda increasingly enjoyed a high profile on the world stage as its historic role as the Gibraltar of the North Atlantic appeared to be coming to an end. Although it was a time of uncertainty, it was thrilling to be able to experience those days as a reporter.

In April 1990, Bermuda hosted a highly successful summit meeting between British prime minister Margaret Thatcher and US president George H.W. Bush.

The focus of the summit was on changes in Eastern Europe, the demise of the Soviet Union and the Iran-Contra affair over illegal weapons trades.

As I recall, the visit by the two leaders was over a few days that included press conferences, tours, tree planting, kite flying (Good Friday), and a walkabout on Front Street.

It was the Front Street event that really thrilled everyone when the British prime minister and the US president broke ranks with their respective security details and moved in closer than planned to mingle with the crowds.

I too was able to get closer to the action than I ever thought possible. As Mrs Thatcher was boarding her plane to leave Bermuda, I shouted a question to her. The Prime Minister signalled to the Premier as to whether she should come back down the steps to speak with me. Sir John nodded yes, and as I interviewed her, photographer Gene Ray shot the picture I will always cherish, a much younger me interviewing Thatcher with our premier looking on.

I remain grateful for that opportunity and join many Bermudians in thanking Sir John for all that he did for Bermuda, not only as premier but also in the many years that followed. Sincere condolences to his family and those closest to him.

• Linda Smith is One Bermuda Alliance MP for Southampton West Central (Constituency 31) and a former journalist at Bermuda Broadcasting Company