First Gibraltar reception highlights FOTBOT’s mission to support the Rock
Ahead of Gibraltar’s National Day, FOTBOT brought together political leaders, businesses, and community groups to share its mission, listen to local voices, and explore how best to build lasting ties with the Rock.
NEWS FROM THE OVERSEAS TERRITORIESGIBRALTAR
Friends of the British Overseas Territories (FOTBOT) hosted its first reception in Gibraltar on 9 September, just ahead of the territory’s annual National Day celebrations.
The event brought together over 50 guests, including government ministers Gemma Arias-Vasquez and John Cortes, Opposition MPs Damian Bossino and Craig Sacarello, and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Gibraltar Professor Catherine Bachleda. Also in attendance were representatives from local businesses, such as David Bruce of Gibraltar International Bank and the Gibraltar Federation of Small Businesses, as well as a wide range of charities and community groups including Animals in Need Foundation, Gibraltar Samaritans, Girlguiding Gibraltar, and Childline Gibraltar. The strong turnout highlighted Gibraltar’s sense of community, and our efforts to build lasting ties with political leaders and community groups.
Attendees heard from Chief Executive James Lunn, who outlined the charity’s mission to raise awareness of the Overseas Territories in the UK, foster greater understanding of their unique challenges, and create opportunities for stronger cooperation. He emphasised that FOTBOT’s goal in Gibraltar was to listen, learn, and explore how the organisation could best support the Rock and build long-term ties between Gibraltar, the charity, and the wider British Overseas Territories family.
The reception offered a valuable platform for dialogue, showcasing Gibraltar’s vibrant civic and business life, while reinforcing FOTBOT’s commitment to ensuring the voices of the territories are heard at the heart of the UK.
Friends of the British Overseas Territories, Registered Charity No 1156763
Friends of the British Overseas Territories is an independent and politically neutral charity. We do not support or endorse any political party or candidate. Only authorised spokespersons may make statements on behalf of the charity, via the charity’s official communications channels. All views otherwise expressed by members or officers should be considered their own.
A Charitable Incorporated Organisation, Registered in England and Wales Email: enquiries@fotbot.org
You can write to us at: Friends of the British Overseas Territories, Po Box 2635, Ilford, IG1 8UA
Promoting, Supporting and Increasing Awareness of the UK Overseas Territories
