Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. Patricia Laverly has assured the British Chamber of Commerce of Government’s support to work with the private sector in realising the country’s massive economic potential.
The Deputy Minister made this statement at a public private dialogue on 3rd June ,2019 at the Radisson Blu hotel in Freetown.The EU Ambassador and British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone,Country Managers of the World Bank and a host of Government Ministers and members of the British Chamber of Commerce graced the occasion.
Dr Laverly stated that, as a Government, they can only make progress by creating the right level of strategic alliance and attracting the much-needed foreign direct investment to stimulate private sector investment and drive economic growth.
The Deputy Finance Minister continued that, Government,has adopted measures that have consolidated fiscal discipline, renewed investors and donor confidence and this according to her gives Government that despite all the challenges they are on the right path.
Government according to her will not relent in their pursuit of economic and social agenda that will bring the needed change and hope to the people of Sierra Leone. The private sector is a strategic partner in achieving this she emphasized.
Madam Laverly further recounted that, Like the Chamber, Government is determined to see this country develop away from aid, stressing the point that Government will work to create the enabling environment so that the private sector can thrive and also provide the much-needed growth, opportunities and resources for the country.
She applauded the Chamber assured them that Government is ready and will work with them to aid and encourage the development of trade, commerce and investment between Sierra Leone and the United Kingdom.
The Deputy Minister praised the contents of the paper presented by the Chamber noting that, it contains some interesting insights and recommendations.
The Ministry she concluded will not have all the answers contained in the presentation but they will rather reassure the Chamber that the Government is committed in adopting measures and policies design that will seek to move Sierra Leone up the “Ease of Doing Business” ranking with resultant benefits to companies and institutions.
She thanked the organisers and assured them of His Excellency’s unflinching support as they work to promote the ideals of the Chamber and the growing UK interest in Sierra Leone.