World Bank a Key Partner in Jamaica’s Development – PM

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, says the World Bank has been a trusted and vital partner in Jamaica’s progress, providing support in critical areas of development over the last 52 years.

She noted that some of Jamaica’s economic and social achievements in recent years are due to the strong and committed assistance of the World Bank.

The Prime Minister made the comments as she extended a warm welcome to new Country Manager to the World Bank in Jamaica, Galina Sotirova, during a reception on Wednesday, November 12, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel.

The Prime Minister noted that the World Bank has provided key support in the development of Jamaica’s social and economic infrastructure and the productive sector. Some landmark programmes funded by the World Bank include: Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) and the Programme of Advancement through Health and Education (PATH).

“I want again to place on record Jamaica’s gratitude to the World Bank for its support of Jamaica’s development through these vital programmes,” Mrs. Simpson Miller said.

The existing country partnership strategy for 2014 to 2017, which provides the framework for the Bank’s engagement with Jamaica, is funded in the amount of US$510 million. As of September 2015, the World Bank had 10 investment projects in Jamaica with a total loan funding of US$229 million.

Mrs. Simpson Miller noted that the Government is currently engaging the World Bank in discussions regarding future projects aimed at agricultural development, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation.

She pledged her full support and that of the Administration to the new Country Manager.

She said that based on initial discussions, she is confident that under Ms. Sotirova’s leadership, the World Bank will continue to play a major role in the economic and social progress of the Jamaican people.

“I wish for you a successful tour of duty. It is my hope you will enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the Jamaican people during your time in Jamaica,” Mrs. Simpson Miller said.

Ms. Sotirova, who has been in Jamaica since September, expressed appreciation for the welcome from the Prime Minister, Government Ministers and the Opposition.

“I really appreciate the warmth and warm welcome and positive energy I have experienced so far,” she said.

Ms. Sotirova was previously Country Operations Advisor to the Caribbean.

In her role as Country Manager, she will be the face and lead agent of the World Bank in Jamaica.

The welcome reception was attended by Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr. the Hon. Peter Phillips; State Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Arnaldo Brown, and leaders from the private sector and academia.