The Premier will this week attend a forum in London in which the security of the Caribbean region, economic and sustainable development will be discussed.

Dr. Ewart Brown was invited to the United Kingdom-Caribbean Forum by UK Foreign Office Minister Meg Munn.

The biennial forum is the main vehicle for dialogue between Whitehall and Foreign Ministers of Commonwealth countries in the Caribbean.

Due to the Island's status as a British Overseas Territory rather than an independent country, Dr. Brown's role in the talks will be one of an "observer".

The Premier said yesterday: "I think this invitation from Minister Meg Munn highlights Bermuda's standing in the region.

So naturally I was more than pleased to accept it on behalf of our country and our Government.

"This forum provides Bermuda with a vital opportunity to dialogue with our neighbours in the Caribbean and get acquainted with high-level officials at Whitehall.

"I expect there will be some valuable new relationships built as a result of this visit to London."