The Isle of Man has hosted representatives from seven EU Member States during a joint consular visit aimed at deepening cultural, educational and commercial ties.
Delegates from Italy, Poland, Spain, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Ireland and Finland visited the island as part of a wider consular programme covering the north of the UK and the Isle of Man.
Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK opened a networking event, emphasising the importance of supporting EU nationals living on the Island and strengthening cooperation between consulates, communities and government.
EU Nationals
He highlighted the contribution EU nationals make to Island life and the opportunity to build stronger international relationships.
The Chief Minister also outlined key economic ambitions, including growth in the visitor economy, which welcomed 329,613 visitors in 2024, generating around £212 million, and plans to double the value of the Island’s advanced engineering and manufacturing sector by 2035.
He noted recent investment in innovation, including the launch of the National AI Office and a £1 million commitment to support responsible AI development.
The visit was coordinated by Sara Raimondo, an island resident and international lawyer active within the Italian community. The programme concluded with a tea hosted by the Lieutenant Governor at Government House.
Attendees included senior consular representatives from all seven participating EU nations.
