Jamaica, CARICOM ready for greater global partnerships, says Holness
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness says that Jamaica and CARICOM are ready to work with the global community in support of global unification and economic prosperity.
Holness said that this should be done through enhanced bilateral and multilateral partnerships. He was making a presentation to world leaders at the 10th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa today.
Holness pointed out four critical challenges that should be addressed on multiple fronts by global leaders, a release from the Office of the Prime Minister said.
He said that world leaders should enhance productivity, engage in trade, address climate change and ensure social protection, inclusion and empowerment of people.
Holness argued that focusing on those four areas would “further the cause of sustainable and inclusive economic development and to translate support into action and prosperity” for all, according to the OPM release.
“In Jamaica we are using our limited resources more efficiently to increase production and improve quality of goods and services across sectors. We are seeking to improve the capacity of small farmers to expand agricultural production higher up the value chain particularly through agro-processing. We are also seeking to provide support to MSMEs to ensure they can participate in the formal economy through access to credit and institutional support,” Holness was quoted as saying.
He reiterated the need for engagement in trade noting that it is essential for growth in small economies.
“For all of us, moving towards a sustainable future requires a determination to build resilience in the way we plan our cities, design transportation and communication infrastructure; and develop key industries across the globe. We join and reiterate the BRICS call for all countries to fully implement the Paris Agreement and for developed countries to provide financial technological and capacity building support to developing countries in this regard,” said the prime minister.
Holness wraps up his working visit to South Africa this afternoon.
