—Says economic openness, private sector growth are keys to Cuba’s long-term prosperity.

THE Latin America Guyana Chamber of Commerce (LAGCC) has endorsed the Government of Guyana’s recent statement of solidarity with the Cuban people, while calling for economic liberalisation and market-oriented reforms as key drivers of sustainable growth and prosperity in Cuba.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Chamber welcomed the Government’s position, which supports a peaceful, sustainable and people-centred resolution to the economic and humanitarian challenges confronting the Caribbean nation.
The Chamber, which promotes trade, investment and commercial co-operation across Latin America and the Caribbean, said long-term prosperity depends on economic openness, regional integration, entrepreneurship and an enabling environment for private enterprise.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr Youni Anthony Abdul, said economic liberalisation, supported by strong governance and transparent institutions, has consistently delivered positive results across the region.
“Economic liberalisation, when coupled with the rule of law, transparency, good governance and strong institutions, has invariably shown its ability to attract investment, spur innovation, expand productive sectors, create jobs and improve the quality of life of citizens,” the statement said.
According to the Chamber, greater economic openness has enabled several Latin American countries to improve their competitiveness, diversify their economies and deepen their integration into regional and international markets.
The organisation also expressed confidence in the Cuban people’s ability to thrive if provided with greater economic opportunities.
“The Chamber believes that the Cuban people have great talent, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Expanding economic opportunity through market-oriented reforms, increased commercial engagement and greater participation in international trade can unlock that potential and foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” the statement added.
The Chamber further welcomed the Guyana Government’s emphasis on dialogue, universal values and the aspirations of the Cuban people, noting that constructive engagement and peaceful co-operation remain the most effective path towards long-term economic development and regional stability.
It reaffirmed its support for initiatives that promote economic liberalisation and private sector development, entrepreneurship and innovation, increased trade and investment, transparent and predictable economic institutions, and sustainable economic growth that delivers opportunities for citizens.
The Chamber also reiterated its commitment to strengthening commercial ties throughout the Americas, maintaining that deeper regional integration and open markets will continue to drive prosperity, resilience and shared development across the hemisphere.