We are honoured to host this inaugural event which will undoubtedly serve to strengthen trade and economic ties, as well as enhance technical cooperation between the People's Republic of China and the countries of the Caribbean with which it has diplomatic relations. We also regard this event as an opportunity for the development of closer trade and economic relations between Jamaica and other Caribbean countries.

We are aware of the great progress that the People's Republic of China has made over the last few years, and of the commitment by the Chinese Government to support the efforts of other developing countries, including those in the Caribbean, to attain their full potential.

We are convinced that through joint efforts such as this China-Caribbean Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum, the countries of the region along with our international partners will achieve greater socio economic development and improved well-being for our citizens.

Jamaica and the People's Republic of China have, over the past thirty-two years, developed a close and mutually beneficial multifaceted relationship, which will be further enhanced by the opening of a Jamaican Embassy in Beijing in the near future. Jamaica is already China's largest trading partner in the CARICOM region, and we are actively exploring opportunities for deeper cooperation in this and a number of other areas of common interest.

We are proud of our collaboration in the organisation of this Forum, and we hope that you will find the content of this site informative, and a stimulus to participation.