The visit of the President of the United States (US), Barack Obama, and the meeting with Heads of State and Government of CARICOM, should deepen bilateral relations between the US and the region.

Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications at the White House, Ben Rhodes, said several areas of mutual interest exist between the United States and CARICOM, including regional security and energy stability.

Mr. Rhodes further noted that the US is keenly interested in youth development and plans to foster greater partnerships with the youth of the region.

“The fact that the President is doing a town hall in Jamaica dedicated to the youth, indicates our understanding that there is a tremendous youth population in these countries, and that carries with it enormous promise. If we’re investing in the youth of the Caribbean, we can expand our ties,” he said

Mr. Rhodes was speaking in a White House press call on April 7, to preview the President’s visit to Jamaica.

Issues of mutual interest between the US and CARICOM will be raised during bilateral discussions between the President and Heads of State and Government of CARICOM, on Thursday, April 9.

President Obama is expected to visit Jamaica from April 8 to 9 while on his way to the Sixth Summit of the Americas in Panama.

Among the activities planned for the visit include: a bilateral meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister; CARICOM-US Summit at the University of the West Indies, Regional Headquarters; a wreath laying ceremony at National Heroes Park; and a Youth Forum at the University of the West Indies.