Holness delivers four-point plan at BRICS conference

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has pointed the leaders of the world's leading emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) - to four critical areas that he thinks should be addressed on multiple fronts.

Addressing the 10th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, yesterday, Holness said that leaders should enhance productivity; engage in trade; address climate change; and ensure social protection, inclusion, and empowerment of people.

The prime minister said that focusing on those four areas would further the cause of sustainable and inclusive economic development and translate support into action and prosperity for all.

UTILISING LIMITED RESOURCES

"In Jamaica, we are using our limited resources more efficiently to increase production and improve quality of goods and services across sectors," said Holness.

"We are seeking to improve the capacity of small farmers to expand agricultural production higher up the value chain, particularly through agro-processing. We are also seeking to provide support to MSMEs (micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises) to ensure they can participate in the formal economy through access to credit and institutional support," added Holness.

He argued that there was need for engagement in trade as this was essential for growth in small economies and pressed the need for more attention to climate change.

"For all of us, moving towards a sustainable future requires a determination to build resilience in the way we plan our cities, design transportation and communication infrastructure, and develop key industries across the globe.

"We join and reiterate the BRICS call for all countries to fully implement the Paris Agreement and for developed countries to provide financial technological and capacity building support to developing countries in this regard," said Holness.