Region Must Become More Assertive in Global Space – PM

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean must move beyond the narrative of vulnerability and become more assertive within the global space.

He argued that for far too long the region has been described primarily through a language of vulnerability, but that “vulnerability is not our destiny”.

“Our region possesses what the world increasingly needs – young populations, strategic geography, extraordinary natural assets, food-producing capabilities, renewable energy potential, creative industries, and resilient democracies. We are not peripheral to the global system, we are central to its stability, sustainability, and future growth,” he said.

“But to project that reality, we must act deliberately. We must articulate clearer regional positions on climate resilience, supply chain diversification, digital inclusion, and sustainable energy. We must move from fragmented national initiatives to aligned regional priorities, and we must shift from reacting to global change to anticipating it, helping to shape the standards and partnerships of the next decade,” he added.

The Prime Minister was speaking at the International Economic Forum, Latin America and the Caribbean 2026 in Panama on January 28.

He called for a regional competitiveness agenda anchored in connectivity, logistics, energy security, and digital transformation.

He mentioned the need for institutional readiness and credible frameworks that give global partners confidence that “our ambitions can be executed with professionalism and continuity”.

He also stressed the need for a renewed diplomatic and economic posture, deepening engagement, not only with traditional partners but with emerging markets, global value chain leaders, and the rapidly expanding green technology ecosystem.

“If our region is to rise, we must deepen our economic connections. If our economies are to scale, we must scale our ambitions. If our voice is to carry globally, we must speak not as isolated markets but as a coherent hemisphere. The opportunity before us is not modest – it is broad, bold, and transformative. Jamaica stands ready to play its part through stronger institutions, more efficient government, and an increasingly competitive economic environment,” Dr. Holness said.

“We intend to contribute to a hemisphere that is not merely participating in global affairs but shaping them. Let us, therefore, commit to a shared regional vision, a hemisphere that acts with discipline, speaks with purpose, and competes with confidence. A hemisphere that is resilient, dynamic, and future-ready. A hemisphere that the world recognises not for its challenges but for its capabilities,” he added.

Prime Minister Holness said this is important as the next decade will not belong to those who wait for opportunity to arrive.

“It will belong to those who create it, and the nations of Latin America and the Caribbean, standing together, can shape a future worthy of our people and equal to our potential,” he stated.