PRIME Minister Andrew Holness says the Jamaican Government will continue to develop strong ties with the 28 countries of the European Union (EU).

Holness, who met with EU Ambassador to Jamaica Malgorzata Wasilewska at Jamaica House Wednesday, emphasised Jamaica’s strong and long-standing relationship with the EU as the two discussed the various areas of support and partnership established over the years.

Holness, Jamaica House said, also highlighted Jamaica’s focus on economic growth and job creation as a means of transforming the society. He also reiterated the country’s commitment to reducing crime and violence and outlined several Government initiatives as part of ‘Plan Secure Jamaica’.

Ambassador Wasilewska, meanwhile, pointed out the EU’s strong contribution to justice and issues related to the development of Jamaica. In addition, she expressed support to the Administration’s interest in promoting transparency, women’s rights and its focus on social development.

The prime minister and Ambassador Wasilewska pledged to collaborate closer to fine-tune areas of mutual interest between Jamaica and the EU and thanked the EU for being a significant partner and the largest provider of grant funding to Jamaica.

There were concerns earlier this year that Britain’s exit from the EU would weaken the European organisation and affect its ability to help small nations states like Jamaica. However, the EU has not indicated if it will have to cut its assistance programmes in light of the exit of Britain.