Dr. Warren Smith and the Most Hon Portia Simpson President, Dr. Warren Smith elaborated on his messages of CDB's continued support and solidarity with Jamaica when he met with Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson, on Friday, August 30, 2013, during his official visit to the island. Dr. Smith, in his previous meetings with other government officials had assured them that the Bank remains a strong partner of Jamaica and is committed to offering assistance in creative ways which will assist the country to achieve its developmental goals. Prior to the meeting with the Prime Minister, Dr. Smith met with the Hon. Anthony Hylton, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce on Wednesday, August 28. This was followed by a breakfast meeting on Thursday, August 29 with Dr. the Hon. Omar Davies, Minister of Transport, Works and Housing. In both meetings the CDB President and the Ministers discussed ways in which the Bank and the country can collaborate. "CDB will always be here for Jamaica, an extremely valuable member of the Bank. We will continue our dialogue with the officials to find innovative and creative ways in which our assistance can meaningfully help to alleviate some of the problems being faced by the country," Dr. Smith said. The President also met with the Vice Chancellor of the University of the West Indies, Professor E. Nigel Harris, and other university staff for discussions on CDB's continued support of the institution. This support, Dr. Smith said, is premised within the framework of UWI's new Strategic Plan 2012-2017, with particular focus on several of the Plan's strategic perspectives, including teaching, learning and student development; employee engagement and development; and internal operational processes. Dr. Smith said CDB will also be looking to increase collaboration with the UWI in the areas of research and innovation. The President also did a wide ranging radio interview on a Jamaican radio station where he discussed such issues as Jamaica's relationship with the Bank, international economic developments and how these have impacted on the Region, and the importance of regional integration. Dr. Smith will meet with the Hon. Phillip Paulwell, Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining on Monday, September 2, as well as address the Jamaica Cabinet and the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica.