Panama Selects Infrastructure and Technology as Theme of the 7th Americas Competitiveness Forum

Despite years of rapid economic growth in many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), recent competitiveness rankings reveal persisting gaps between the region and more advanced economies. According to the latest Global Competitiveness Report (WEF, 2013), out of 144 ranked economies, only four countries in LAC make the “top 50” (Chile, Barbados, Panama and Brazil) and although progress has been made in some countries, the LAC region falls short of other competing developing regions, particularly Asia.

Against this backdrop, the Inter-American Competitiveness Network (RIAC) stands out as a timely multi-stakeholder regional initiative that offers a platform for public-policy dialogue, experience sharing and joint collaboration to promote competitiveness and innovation in the region.

At a meeting of RIAC Steering Committee held in May 2013, Panama announced that the theme of the 7th Competitiveness Forum to be held in Panama from October 2 to 4 will be "Infrastructure and Technology Shaping Countries Today."

The theme selected by the host country highlights one of the 10 Principles of Competitiveness approved by competitiveness authorities and councils in 2011. The event will be inaugurated by President Ricardo Martinelli and bring together more than 1,200 political and business leaders, along with regional and international experts on infrastructure and academic representatives.

Panama’s Executive Secretary of Economic and Competitiveness Affairs, Ms. Kristelle Getzler, who serves as Chair of the preparatory process for the Competitiveness Forum, stressed that “Panama is committed to continuing the valuable work of Colombia in last year’s Forum, focusing on the success and development we have had in the infrastructure sector in our country."

Strengthening infrastructure such as roads, railroads, electric power networks, and information and communication technologies (ICT) is critical for increasing productivity and competitiveness. By promoting dialogue, exchange of best practices and collaboration among different actors in this area, the OAS continues to serve as a catalyst for development, trade and innovation in the region.

For more information, please visit the Forum’s Website at www.competitivenessforum.org. For pictures and videos visit the following Flickr and Youtube accounts.

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