CCIAP: IVM program and water, among the challenges of 2024

The Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Panama (CCIAP) believes that the year 2024 represents a great challenge of making transcendental decisions as a nation, with the aim of securing an immediate future of prosperity.

According to CCIAP, the new administration has the immediate task of reviewing the future of the Program Disability, old age and death of the Social Insurance Fund (CSS).

“It is clear that the solution will not appear by magic, but will require a technical, scientific and mathematical approach that offers a real and long-term solution for the population,” he maintains.

For the union, prompt action in the area is imperative waterboth for human consumption and for work Panama Canal and other key economic activities.

In addition, they point out that important decisions must be made regarding the reservoirs and the hydrographic basin of the Interoceanic Highway, as well as fundamental restructuring. Institute of National Aqueducts and Sewers (IDAAN).

Economists believe that the new rulers, both in the executive and legislative branches, must propose and implement public policies that recognize the critical state of state finances and that create the necessary confidence to encourage private investment, both domestic and foreign.

“All this combined with institutional strengthening that makes visible the real return on the contributions of taxpayers and CSS contributors and, as a result, encourages the formalization of both entrepreneurs and workers,” adds CCIAP.

Also, it is crucial to tackle the growing state bureaucracy, which has proven to be a significant obstacle to the operational efficiency of the manufacturing sector.

In this context, it is imperative that implementation of innovative technologies that reduce bureaucracy, optimize state procedures and, at the same time, reduce levels of corruption by increasing transparency in government procedures, procurement and management, reducing discretion and increasing trust in institutions.

The union reiterated the urgency of undertaking deep change on the issues educationas we continue without the foundation of an educational program worthy of the 21st century that allows Panamanians social mobility.

“As a society, we have an urgent responsibility to update the methodology and educational plans, directing them towards continuous improvement. Our young people demand modern education, with a pedagogical level of excellence, which prepares them to face the challenges and opportunities of a changing world”, they emphasized.

Faced with these challenges, CCIAP calls on Panamanians to promote an environment of peace and respectful exchange of ideas leading up to the May 5 elections, choosing the best men and women.