Domestic productivity and competitiveness agenda for Colombia

(Bogota, April 18, 2008).- The National Planning Department (DNP) presented to Colombia 44 pages containing the results of the regional and sectoral Domestic Agenda, strategic guidelines for Colombia’s participation in world trade, and definition of policies, plans and projects to improve the quality of life of Colombians.

The Competitiveness and Productive Transformation Forum was held in the presence of Colombian President Álvaro Uribe; DNP director Carolina Rentería; CAF representative in Colombia Freddy Rojas; the president of the Institute for Liberty and Democracy, Hernando de Soto; the president of the Bogota Chamber of Commerce, María Fernanda Campo; and DNP competitiveness manager Daniel Castellanos.

The planning director said the documents contained the productive plans defined by the regions, and the competitive strategies established by the sectors which have participated in the process, along with the associated needs and actions. The official added that this information was very useful for organizations interested in promoting competitiveness because it recognizes the real priorities of the regions and sectors.

CAF representative in Colombia Freddy Rojas said the Corporation had been giving decisive support to all efforts to improve levels of competitiveness in Latin America, so that the region could participate efficiently and equitably in the global economy, while simultaneously reducing poverty and raising levels of development and welfare for the majority of the population.