"I want us to increase our cooperation in other aspects of our political life. For example, our Parliaments should develop close cooperation on a bilateral level besides working together under the auspices of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association," President Kikwete said.

He also expressed a desire for more exchange of visits between the Government ministries and departments of the two countries, as well as cooperation between their private sectors.

"I would like, as well, to see greater cooperation between our business communities and our peoples. This way, we will be able to share experiences, learn from each other and do much more together for our mutual benefit," he said.

President Kikwete said there was a need for increased trading and investment, as well, and expressed confidence that closer mutual economic cooperation, would be of tremendous benefit to both nations.

He said that Jamaica's vibrant tourism industry could teach Tanzanians a lot about the industry, and that Jamaican businesses were welcome to invest in Tanzania.

"They could do so in the tourism industry, or in any other sector of their choice. There is an abundance of opportunities in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, as well as in the services such as Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), health and education," he offered.

Earlier, Jamaica's Prime Minister, the Hon Bruce Golding, welcomed the Tanzanian leader and his party to Gordon House and commended him for his leadership.

"We know of the challenges you face: reducing poverty developing your infrastructure, securing the investments needed to accelerate economic growth, providing better opportunities for your people and combating the effects of climate change that threatens the agricultural sector on which so much of your population depends," Mr. Golding affirmed.

He also commended President Kikwete on his ambitious programme of transformation at home, including economic liberalization, structural and fiscal reforms, tax reform, privatization and increased support for the private sector.

"You have done well. You have succeeded in maintaining low inflation, strong investment flows, robust international reserves and an average annual growth rate of seven per cent over the past decade," Mr. Golding remarked.

Leader of the Opposition, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, noted that the Oppositions stood ready to support any initiative that will draw both countries closer together.

"We feel that it is full time that you have an office established in Jamaica, that would serve this region, and we look forward to the day when the relationship will deepen with the establishment of that office," she said.

President Kikwete and his wife leave Jamaica on Thursday (November 26) for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference in Trinidad and Tobago, ending a memorable four-day state visit.


JIS, Kingston