Transforming the current world economic and financial crisis that, in Cape Verde, has particularly affected the northern islands, into an opportunity is the main objective of a workshop that begins today in Mindelo. The two-day workshop, which is being promoted by the Windward Islands Chamber of Commerce, is aimed at defining the bases of a strategic plan for jump-starting the economy in the region.

The theme of the workshop is “Santo Antão, São Vicente and São Nicolau – the Challenges and Opportunities of Economic and Social Development.” One of its high points is expected to be the elaboration of the “Mindelo Consensus,” which will symbolize the acceptance of responsibilities by central and local authorities and by the private sector.

According to the Windward Islands Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services, during this time of crisis, a major challenge faces the population of the three islands, which constitute one of the most negatively affected portions of the country due to the aggravation of the situation of economic sustainability experienced over the course of the past several decades by the business class and the population in general.

The situation, affirms the Chamber of Commerce, is experienced and commented upon by business people, managers, teachers, university students and politicians, and requires a position to be staked out urgently by the region’s decision-makers. The Chamber of Commerce has taken it upon itself to lead this process of the search for solutions allowing the region’s economy to emerge from its state of slumber and help achieve social equilibrium.

The official opening of the workshop will be presided over by Minister of the Economy, Growth and Competitiveness Fátima Fialho. The debates will be led by an IMF representative, businessman and former prime minister Gualberto do Rosário, and UCP coordinator Júlio Fortes. The closing ceremony will be presided over by Prime Minister José Maria Neves.