Revisiting oil deal with Nigeria

JAMAICA AND Nigeria have agreed to revive a special oil arrangement between them that has been on hold for some time.

This was one of several issues discussed during bilateral talks between Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller and Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan at Jamaica House yesterday.

Jonathan left the island yesterday after a two-day State visit during which he also participated in a number of activities that formed part of the Jamaica 50 celebrations.

Simpson Miller, who was speaking at a joint press conference with Jonathan following their talks, said the suspension of the technical cooperation in oil was of "great concern" to Jamaica.

"This is something which we have discussed and we have agreed in earnest to revive," she told reporters.

Energy ministers to meet

However, while there was no indication as to when the arrangement would resume, Simpson Miller and Jonathan announced that the energy ministers from both countries will meet for further talks.

"The country will be informed as soon as Minister Paulwell has discussions with the energy minister in Nigeria," Simpson Miller indicated.

In addition, she said both countries have agreed to put the finishing touches on an air service agreement that would allow Jamaica to serve as a gateway into the wider Caribbean for Africa as well as a hub for the movement of goods and services.

The Nigerian President, in his address, said "these are some of the low hanging fruits that we can quickly exploit."

He also urged Jamaican businesses to explore opportunities in his country, pointing out that all areas of the economy were opened to private-sector investment.