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  • Top 104 of '06

Former Prime Minister of Jamaica, The Hon P.J. Patterson, who served as Head of Government for 14 unbroken years told a packed house at the Schomburg Center for Research In Black Culture in Harlem, presented an astonishing speech on the "Caribbean's Economic Potential."

Mr. Patterson, the honoured speaker at the Caribbean International Network's (CIN) Fourth Annual Lecture focused on areas of economic potential. He pointed out the rapidly growing e-commerce sector or internet sales requires less investment than traditional retail and sales in the US is substantially out pacing traditional retail sales. He suggested that those among the Diaspora who have been involved in e-commerce abroad possess the advantage of substantial technical and other experience which can be a tremendous asset in the establishment of such industries in the region.

He highlighted the fact that "Out of Trinidad and Tobago has come the only new musical instrument of the 20th Century, the melody of the steel pan, along with Reggae and Soca he bragged, are probably the only music not of European or American origin which can be heard in every country on earth and is arguably the first example in modern times of a third world country exporting its culture to such a diverse audience."

Mr. Patterson drew applause as he detailed his vision for a unified Caribbean community, including all countries in the region, including Haiti, building towards common developmental goals. He also noted those who are first second and third generations living in North America and Europe can play a special role, noting "We must not underestimate the importance the diasporic community in lobbying special interests on behalf of the Caribbean regional quest for economic development."

Stephen Hill, CEO of Caribbean International Network (CIN TV) who delivered the vote of thanks, said "Tonight was the celebration of a Caribbean icon, the most Honourable PJ Patterson. We are indeed very proud of the CIN Lecture Series as it allows the New York/American community to meet their Caribbean heroes and celebrate them while they are still alive."

Among the dignitaries attending the lecture series were:
Christopher Dobson, JTB; Howard Dodson, CEO, Schomburg Center; Hon Una Clarke, former Brooklyn City Councilwoman Rosealee Dean, Senior Vice President, Capital & Credit Financial Group.