Premier and Finance Minister David Burt described the last 50 days as an “upheaval”
The government is reviewing all possible avenues in response to the United States tariff policies however, its too premature to make any final decisions at this stage, according to Premier and Finance Minister David Burt.
During a news conference yesterday, Premier Burt described the last 50 days of global politics as an “upheaval” but reassured the public that the government is in talks with the United Kingdom, and representatives at their Washington, D.C. office to be proactive in managing the crisis.
He said, “At my discussion at CARICOM, this was a very large feature, the changing relationship with the United States.
“The impact on cuts in aid budgets significantly affect those countries, not just from an aid perspective but also in something that is important for Bermuda.
“That is weather -the National Hurricane Centre, hurricane monitoring etcetera and fears about the provision of those services and any reductions in which they may have.”
The Premier was joined by Attorney General Senator Kim Wilkerson at a news conference at the Cabinet Office to brief the media on its recent 2025 Throne Speech presentation announced last Friday.
The government said its not lost on the potential impacts the country may face regarding the US’ current tariff and trade changes.
He said, “In regards of tariffs, and more locally and the others issues faced with shipping, there is a full court diplomatic press that is happening and occurring.
“We are aware of these things. We have been speaking with the United Kingdom government. We have representative in the United States that are directly engaging with officials in the US on these particular matters.
“But as a government, we need to make sure we are proactive in examining all options,” he added.
Asked his view on the matter overall, Premier Burt said he remains confident in the governments ability to adapt to the unfolding situation keeping the needs of residents at the forefront.
“Uncertainty is never a good thing for a country that has been through a significant challenge with cost of living.
“Any fears or possibilities of increase cost again is not something the government would welcome but I have confidence in the government.
“I have confidence in the public service.
“I have confidence in our private sector working with us with our overseas officials who are liaising on these particular matters and I know that we’ll be ready to face anything which may come.”
Premier Burt likened the situation to the country’s ability to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises faced over the passed seven years during his tenure.
