Prime Minister Andrew Holness calls on Latin American and Caribbean leaders to articulate clearer regional positions on climate resilience, supply-chain diversification, digital inclusion, and sustainable energy.

While speaking at the opening session of the CAF International Economic Forum Latin America and the Caribbean, he emphasised that Jamaica will not rebuild what was vulnerable, but “will build forward, stronger and smarter”.

The International Economic Forum of Latin America and the Caribbean 2026, organised by CAF in Panama from January 27 to 30, 2026, aims to foster high-level dialogue among leaders to promote sustainable growth, competitiveness, and investment in the region.

The conference positions Latin America and the Caribbean as a key global partner, addressing challenges like climate change and digital transformation while strengthening public-private partnerships

Holness shared Jamaica’s journey of recovery and its strategy for the future, as leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean restated their commitment to regional cooperation and a joint approach to tackling shared challenges.

“After the devastation of the past year, Jamaica is committed to implementing systems that will lessen the impact of future shocks and put us in an even better position to recover.

“By investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and reducing bureaucracy through our  Streamlining Processes for Efficiency and Economic Development (SPEED) initiative, we are showing the world that Jamaica is open for business and ready to lead,” Holness said.

The prime minister declared that the focus has shifted beyond recovery and firmly towards rebuilding.