ECLAC Chief highlights Dominican Republic’s role in regional cooperation

Santiago de los Caballeros.- ECLAC Executive Secretary José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs welcomed the Dominican Republic’s assumption of the presidency of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), describing the country as well positioned to contribute to regional dialogue and cooperation.

Speaking ahead of the 41st Session of ECLAC, taking place October 7–9 in Santiago de los Caballeros, Salazar-Xirinachs said the Dominican Republic has experiences it can share with other countries and can help bring together governments and different sectors to develop joint responses to the region’s challenges.

The official expressed optimism about the country’s two-year presidency, saying it represents an opportunity to strengthen cooperation among ECLAC member states.

The opening ceremony on Wednesday, October 7, will be led by Dominican President Luis Abinader, Salazar-Xirinachs and Peruvian Ambassador to the Dominican Republic Gustavo Lembcke Hoyle.

The three-day meeting will bring together foreign ministers, government officials, heads of delegation and experts to discuss key issues affecting Latin America and the Caribbean, including geopolitics, regional integration, digital transformation and artificial intelligence, productive development, macroeconomics and taxation.

The 41st session formally begins the Dominican Republic’s two-year presidency of ECLAC, during which the country will help facilitate dialogue among member states and follow up on regional priorities established by the commission.