Caribbean leader calls for integrated development.

• Author: Conaway, Janelle
• Position: P.J. Patterson, Jamaica

The OAS member states must place a high priority not only on democracy but on development, Prime Minister P. J. Patterson of Jamaica told the Permanent Council during a visit to OAS headquarters in Washington.

"I am convinced that unless we focus in a meaningful way on the intrinsic link between democracy, good governance, and international security on the one hand, and development on the other, our goals for peace, stability, and political and economic security will always remain elusive," said Patterson, who spoke at a protocolary meeting on March 9. "We must therefore address the development agenda with the same energy and commitment as we have sought to strengthen the democratic agenda, giving each equal dedication, in order that the benefits of democracy can be widely felt to improve the quality of life for our peoples," he added.

Noting that he would soon turn over the reins of government--Portia Simpson Miller became Jamaica's first female prime minister on March 30--Patterson reflected on some of the challenges ahead for the region, particularly for small, developing countries. Globalization and trade liberalization, he said, have brought potential benefits and opportunities but also...