PM Says Cooperation to be Given Priority

The Prime Ministers of Jamaica and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago have agreed to prioritise the Framework Bilateral Cooperation agreement currently under consideration, to enable enhanced dialogue and cooperation between the two countries.

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, addressing a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kingston, yesterday (July 21), said the agreement will provide a structured medium for robust bilateral discussions and cooperation in various areas of national development, through the establishment of a Joint Commission.

The Commission will focus on collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including tourism, transportation, security, technical and cultural cooperation.

Mr. Holness further indicated that during bilateral discussions with Prime Minister of Trinidad,  Dr. the Hon. Keith Rowley, and his delegation, they both agreed that CARICOM must be made better able to maximise its benefits to all member states and respond to external challenges which impact the development of the countries.

He said note was also taken of the reform process under way in CARICOM and Jamaica’s establishment of a Commission to determine the benefits of its participation in the organisation.

Mr. Holness said there was an agreement to strengthen the two countries’ close collaboration at the multilateral level as Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

At the press conference, held shortly before Dr. Rowley departed Jamaica’s Norman Manley International Airport, Mr. Holness said his visit from July 17 to 21, provided the opportunity for useful political dialogue and strategic analysis.

“This is a time for bold leadership and courage to make the right decisions and chart new pathways… . We must build stronger alliances in this interdependent and interconnected world, if our objectives are to be realised and our people empowered towards sustainable development,” Mr. Holness said.