The Premier and his deputy were in Washington DC yesterday for talks with members of the US Congress.

David Burt, also Minister of Finance, and Walter Roban will discuss energy, finance, economics and air service development in a series of meetings.

They were scheduled to meet Gregory Meeks and Karen Bass, members of the House foreign affairs committee, Emmanuel Cleaver, a member of the House financial services committee and Gwen Moore, ranking member of the financial services sub-committee on monetary policy and trade.

Mr Burt said: “Bermuda must consistently leverage and strengthen existing relationships in important political and economic centres.

“We must also take the opportunity to connect our engagement with political and business leaders overseas to issues right here at home.

“Our expansion into the fintech industry and the need to address energy costs are two areas we will focus on in Washington.

“Securing the growth and economic diversification we promised for the people of Bermuda depends on our ability to promote Bermuda as a well-regulated jurisdiction and to ensure that overseas policies, even those of friendly governments, do not harm our efforts here at home.”

Mr Roban was also due to meet Abby Hopper, chief executive officer of the Solar Energy Industry Association, to discuss how governments have incorporated the use of solar energy and technology into their energy portfolios.

The Premier was also listed to attend the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s annual prayer breakfast.

The two are expected to return to the island on Monday.