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Panama remains a strong ally of Jamaica says Charles Jr

Published:Wednesday | November 7, 2018 | 12:00 AMPaul Clarke/Gleaner Writer
Pearnel Charles, Jr.

Panama continues to be an important partner in Jamaica's effort to further improve air traffic control and advance the country's maritime and port development, state minister for foreign affairs Pearnel Charles Jr has said.

Earlier this year, the relationship between Jamaica and Panama soared to new heights, with the historic staging of the first meeting of the Jamaica-Panama Joint Commission for Cooperation, which was convened in Kingston.

"This accomplishment is of particular significance to Jamaica, as it was one of the first agreements signed by foreign minister Kamina Johnson Smith, during Prime Minister Andrew Holness' visit to Panama, shortly after this administration took office two years ago," recounted Charles, in an address to mark Panama's 115th Anniversary of Independence.

He said that the meeting provided an opportunity for both countries to exchange experiences and expertise in the implementation of concrete projects geared towards improving air traffic control, advancing maritime and port development, developing logistics initiatives, enhancing the country's rich and diverse cultural traditions, developing the tourism product as well as exchanging sporting expertise, among other initiatives.

"As you celebrate another milestone in your country's rich history, the people of Panama can be justly proud of the remarkable economic and social development that has been achieved over the many years," said the state minister.

Charles also noted that Panama continues to play a leading role in the region in the areas of logistics and services, and Jamaica can undoubtedly learn from their expertise.

 

KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE PROJECT

 

"I am happy to report that follow-up activities have already begun in the key areas of education, tourism and maritime development. In fact, we are happy to see that one of the first areas for cooperation will be in the field of education, with the upcoming visit of professors from Panama who will be participating in the first phase of a knowledge exchange project between our countries with regard to tourism education," he said

"It is well known that Jamaica continues to see much success in the tourism sector and I am, therefore, pleased that we will be assisting Panama with the development of its community tourism."

Last month Jamaica and Panama signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Caribbean Maritime University and the International Maritime University of Panama.

The MOU will see the universities collaborating in the implementation of international maritime conventions and other activities aimed at supporting the development of the maritime sector in the Western Hemisphere.

paul.clarke@gleanerjm.com