An expert in public policy and European affairs will be the new Government of Bermuda representative in Brussels.

Aliyyah Ahad will take over from Renée Webb, whose appointment to the post was announced in January 2019.

Ms Ahad has lived and worked in Bermuda, Toronto, Paris, Rabat, Washington, Oxford, London, and Brussels.

A government spokeswoman said: “Ms Ahad has spent the last four years working in the heart of the European Union, building relationships with a range of policy stakeholders and conducting high-quality research and analysis on some of the most contentious issues facing the continent, such as Brexit, the EU budget, and EU co-operation with Third World countries on migration.

“She has regularly participated in and organised high-level events for EU and national government officials, in addition to closed door bilateral briefings.”

David Burt, the Premier, said: “Let me first extend my thanks to Renée Webb for the work that she did in establishing the office and setting the stage for Bermuda’s ongoing interaction with the various EU entities in Brussels.

“Renée developed key relationships with the commission and important stakeholders in the EU member countries.

“She also ensured that the office welcomed young Bermudians as interns gaining invaluable experience in this centre of international affairs.”

He added: “Aliyyah is an incredible Bermudian talent whose service in this role we are privileged to enjoy.

“I know her to be a dedicated intellectual who, I am sure, will bring her customary professionalism and thoroughness to the task that lies ahead.

“I am pleased that she has accepted this challenge and I look forward to working with her to further Bermuda’s interest within the EU.”

Mr Burt said: “The uncertainty in many areas of global affairs means that more than ever, countries like Bermuda must be at the forefront of protecting their interests and remaining fully engaged with key decision-makers, in areas that impact our affairs here at home.

“Bermuda in Brussels continues to be a fundamental part of ensuring the continued economic success of Bermuda.”

Ms Ahad was a Rhodes scholar at the University of Oxford where she studied migration studies and public policy.

She also earned an honours degree in political science and sociology from the University of Toronto, with high distinction.

The government spokeswoman added: “Ms Ahad also spent a year studying at Sciences Po Paris [the Paris Institute of Political Studies], where she received an exchange programme certificate, cum laude.

“She is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Shapers and the African Caribbean Pacific Young Professionals Network. She speaks English and French.”

Ms Webb said: “It has been a tremendous opportunity to serve my country in such a unique way.

“I welcomed the challenge of starting an office and building a rapport with seasoned diplomats and career foreign service officers. I believe Bermuda’s interests will continue to be well served by Aliyyah and I have every confidence in her abilities.”