Jersey hoping to develop new links through World Economic Forum

Thursday 05 September 2019

Jersey’s External Relations Minister will represent the island at the 28th World Economic Forum (WEF) on Africa this week in a bid to not only enhance current links with other countries, but also develop new ones.

Senator Ian Gorst will join more than 1,000 regional and global leaders from politics, business, civil society and academia to consider how innovation, cooperation, growth and stability can help drive a sustainable future for Africa.

This is the third consecutive time Jersey has been invited to take part in the Forum, which the Government says is an indication of WEF’s growing confidence in the island as a valued partner to Africa.

The 3-day event, titled ‘Shaping inclusive growth and shared futures in the Fourth Industrial Revolution,' will include presentations and seminars on creating an enabling environment for inclusive sustainable development in Africa – including discussion on how to improve access to the skills and capital that are vital to industrialisation, while also tackling environmental challenges.

"Jersey has developed positive relationships with several countries in Africa and is working hard to support their investment needs and long-term development," Senator Gorst said

“We participate in the WEF Partnering Against Corruption Initiative (PACI) and we are also helping to direct much-needed investment into sub-Saharan Africa, expanding our treaty network to facilitate these business flows. 

“Jersey’s financial services institutions deliver up to 1.5% of all Foreign Direct Investment into Africa and I believe Jersey can play a bigger role in helping to direct much-needed investment into sub-Saharan Africa.”

Senator Gorst will be speaking at two plenary sessions on Tackling Financial Crime, and European and African Integration. He will also be holding private meetings with ministers and industry leaders from several African countries.

“The Forum is an important opportunity to build on our existing relationships," he added. "It will also allow us to enhance the Island’s reputation internationally, and to develop links with other countries."