Charles hails Chile’s contribution to Jamaica
STATE MINISTER for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Pearnel Charles Jr has hailed Chile’s significant economic success on the commemoration of the 208th anniversary of South American nation’s independence, noting their contribution to Jamaica’s efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
“This commemorative event represents an opportunity for us to acknowledge and commend Chile’s spectacular economic growth and development and its long-standing commitment to South-South and Triangular Cooperation,” Charles said.
FASTEST-GROWING ECONOMIES
He said that Chile stands as one of Latin America’s fastest-growing economies and continues to play a significant role in the promotion of peace, democracy, and the achievement of sustainable development in the Western Hemisphere.
According to Charles, Jamaica and Chile boast excellent relations, spanning more than 53 years of formal ties.
“I am pleased that in recent years, our relations have grown into a strong partnership based on close political dialogue and technical and economic cooperation as well as increased collaboration at the multilateral level,” noted Charles.
In addition, Charles said that the Chilean government has consistently provided support, including in citizen security, disaster risk reduction, environmental management, diplomacy and the promotion of Spanish as a second language.
He stated his belief that Jamaica-Chile relations would continue to strengthen.
“The Jamaica and Chile partnership is undoubtedly in good hands. I am confident that with your enthusiasm and a strong interest in getting to know the Jamaican people, and our unique culture, our relations will continue to flourish,” Charles said, speaking directly to the new Chilean ambassador to Jamaica, Francisco Bernales.
Charles further stated that CARICOM valued the Chilean contribution to its development.
“Indeed, our heads of government welcomed the productive dialogue with Chilean President His Excellency Sebastian Piñera, at their recent summit in Montego Bay, particularly the decision to forge closer cooperation in the areas of disaster risk management and resilience building,” he said.