2005News

Jamaica focuses on the DR

In an editorial, the Jamaica Observer discusses the recently expressed interest of the Dominican Republic in becoming a member of Caricom, that groups English-speaking members of the Caribbean. It mentions that the DR has a far more vibrant agricultural sector than other Caricom sectors, and that with the exception of Trinidad & Tobago, its manufacturers outstrip the Community’s. It also mentions that Caricom has experience of working with the DR, through Cariforum and through the free trade agreement signed seven years ago. “There should, therefore, be a level of familiarity, and a comfort level between both sides,” writes the editorialist. It mentions the ambivalence expressed by the opposition Jamaican Labor Party regarding the regional integration process that might present an obstacle to the DR’s admission to Caricom.

See http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/editorial/html/20050727T000000-0500_84929…