Saint Vincent and the Grenadines–United Kingdom relations facts for kids
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 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
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Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and the United Kingdom have a long and interesting history together. Their story goes back to when the British first settled in the Caribbean and had some disagreements with the French during the time of colonies.
Contents
A Look Back: History
Early Control of Saint Vincent
The island of Saint Vincent was first given to Britain by the French in 1763. This happened after a peace agreement called the Treaty of Paris. Later, the French took the island back for a short time. But they gave it to Britain again in 1783 after another peace treaty.
Plantations and Local Resistance
After taking control, the British started setting up farms called plantations on the island. They grew crops there. However, the local people, known as the Black Caribs, did not agree with these plans.
Moving Towards Independence
Saint Vincent stayed under British rule for a long time. In the 20th century, people on the island started wanting to govern themselves.
On October 27, 1969, Britain gave Saint Vincent "associate statehood." This meant Saint Vincent could manage all its own matters inside the country. But it was not yet fully independent.
Full Independence Day
Ten years later, on October 27, 1979, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines became fully independent. This happened after people voted in a special election, led by Milton Cato. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was the last of the Windward Islands to gain its independence.
Today's Connections
Diplomatic Offices
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has an office called a High Commission in London, England. They also have another office in Comber, Northern Ireland. In return, the United Kingdom has its own High Commission in Kingstown, which is the capital of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. These offices help the two countries work together.
Trade and Money Matters
Trading Goods and Services
For many years, from 2008 to 2020, Saint Vincent and the UK traded under a special agreement. This agreement was part of a larger deal between the CARIFORUM group of countries and the European Union.
New Trade Agreement
When the United Kingdom left the European Union (this was called Brexit), they needed a new trade deal. So, the UK and the CARIFORUM countries, including Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, signed a new agreement. This new deal started on January 1, 2021. It helps trade continue smoothly between Saint Vincent and the United Kingdom.
