Barbados aims to strengthen ties with Togo during a week-long visit from Togolese officials. Minister Chad Blackman emphasized the importance of exploring business opportunities for Barbadian entrepreneurs, especially youth, to enter Togo’s growing market. The partnership focuses on leveraging Togo’s advanced infrastructure and port efficiency for mutual economic benefits. This cooperation also seeks to enhance cultural exchanges and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Barbados is actively seeking to enhance its relationship with Togo as officials from the West African nation visit the island for a week. Minister of Economic Affairs and Investment Chad Blackman emphasized the need to explore business opportunities that Togo can offer, particularly for Barbadian entrepreneurs, including young innovators. He highlighted that the goal is not just to establish large companies but also to empower the next generation of business leaders in Barbados.
Minister Blackman noted that fostering stronger diplomatic relations with Togo is vital for expanding trade, cultural exchanges, and economic growth. Plans are underway to utilize Togo’s robust infrastructure and burgeoning economy, which will benefit Barbadian businesses and entrepreneurs. Formal diplomatic ties are essential, but the focus must be on delivering tangible benefits to the people of both nations.
Blackman urged Barbadian sectors to investigate how to penetrate the Togolese market, stating, “If you are producing goods here, you must now ask yourself, ‘how can I get my goods into the Togolese market?'” He expressed excitement regarding this partnership, emphasizing that it represents an unprecedented opportunity for both nations. He further stated the importance of rekindling connections with Africa, not only for heartfelt reasons but to yield beneficial opportunities for citizens.
Highlighting Togo’s advantageous position, Blackman mentioned its status as home to the largest port in West Africa, located in the capital city, Lomé. He pointed out the efficiency of Togo’s port operations, where goods can be cleared from ship to customer in just 12 minutes. This efficiency exemplifies the logistical skills Barbados hopes to leverage in its ties with Togo, fostering growth for both economies.
Togo was historically significant as the site of the Lomé Conventions, which established the first regional trade agreement between the European Union and former colonies in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. This serves as a foundation for the cooperative initiatives Barbados is looking to explore with Togo.
In conclusion, Barbados is on a mission to strengthen its ties with Togo, focusing on enhancing diplomatic relations that lead to real economic benefits for both nations. Minister Chad Blackman emphasized the potential opportunities for Barbadian businesses, particularly the importance of connectivity to Togo’s efficient infrastructure. The partnership aims to encourage trade and entrepreneurial ventures while fostering cultural exchanges and collective economic development.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
