International business leader Cheryl Packwood is calling for Government to reach out to businesses and governments around the world to educate them on the importance of maintaining strong relationships with Bermuda.

Ms Packwood said Bermuda had coped better than other countries with the economic crisis and is now in a position to support a global marketing campaign.

She said she hopes Premier Ewart Brown will deliver that message in his Throne Speech on Friday.

The CEO of Bermuda International Business Association (BIBA) told The Royal Gazette: "Bermuda's continued prosperity and economic stability depends on the strength of the partnership between business and government.

"If this past year has demonstrated anything, it is that Bermuda remains at the forefront of innovation in the financial services world and that our regulatory approach has proven effective in dealing with crises and challenges.

"While many other nations have not been so well prepared, Bermuda passed the test. As a result, Bermuda has an opportunity.

"Now is the time for Government to recognise that potential, embracing and fully supporting an ambitious global marketing campaign that reaches both business prospects around the world and other government leaders to educate them on the importance of maintaining strong economic and regulatory relationships with Bermuda.

"If Bermuda were to do this, we could ensure that our short-term and long-term position as a global business centre would be secure for decades to come. It is my hope that the Premier will deliver that message and that leaders of both parties and the business community will embrace his call with their full support."