Channel Islands and French leaders renew ties

Delegates at the summit discussed the ongoing co-operation between the three

Energy and the environment, maritime links and a renewal of a three-year commitment to one another have been discussed at the latest annual summit of political leaders from the Channel Islands and parts of France.

Jersey hosted the gathering at Mont Orgueil on Wednesday, which saw leaders from Guernsey, Alderney, Saek La Manche and Normandy come together.

The summit, which started in 2015, aims to celebrate the islands' ties with their European neighbours.

Deputy Lyndon Farnham, Jersey's Chief Minister, said the newly agreed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) confirmed a "collective commitment to our sustainable future with strong trade and cultural links".

Organisers said the renewed three-year MOU reaffirmed priority areas, including governmental links, economic development, tourism, trade and transport, education, sports, culture and heritage, environment, marine issues and marine renewable energy.

Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, Chief Minister of Guernsey, said it would "help us respond more effectively to shared challenges and opportunities, including new developments in the UK-EU relationship that affect Guernsey".

Jean Morin, President of La Manche, said the 2025 summit was a special edition due to the celebration of two anniversaries.

Delegates examined the positive contributions that have come from the relationships so far

He said: "First, the 10th anniversary of the co-operation agreement, renewed for three years.

"And let's not forget the 30th anniversary of the Maison de la Normandie et de la Manche in Jersey, a true link between our territories.

"I would like to salute all those who, for three decades, have worked to keep this relationship alive."

Hervé Morin, President of the Normandy region, said: "I am also delighted that the Channel Islands will be actively participating in the celebrations marking the 1,000th anniversary of the birth of William the Conqueror in 2027.

"The Normandy Region aims to create a popular, artistic and cultural event on a European scale, bringing together the major regions that share the Norman heritage."