Kingston – The Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Jamaica on its development agenda.
CDB president, Dr Gene Leon, who is on his first official visit here, held talks with Prime Minister Andrew Holness and a statement issued afterward said that Leon reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to Jamaica and his intention to collaborate more closely with stakeholders to support the country’s development agenda.
“Jamaica is one of the bank’s largest shareholders and we are committed to working with the Government and the people in a way that makes a difference for the country and strengthens the region as a whole,” Leon said during the virtual meeting.
A CDB statement said that the bank’s work programme for Jamaica is focused on strengthening project implementation capacity; improving productivity and competitiveness; increasing access to tertiary education and vocational training; and enhancing social development.
It is currently financing major projects in several parishes which will improve agricultural production.
During the discussions with Holness, areas cited for future enhanced collaboration include increased technical support for project implementation, dealing with the impacts of climate change, and promoting digital transformation.
“The Caribbean Development Bank continues to be a significant development partner. We are confident that under Dr Leon’s leadership that partnership will be strengthened. We look forward to further engagement on urgent developmental priorities to chart a course for a strong and fast recovery from the pandemic,” Holness added. (CMC)
