Jamaica’s business leaders have welcomed the appointment of Fayval Williams, as Minister of Finance and the Public Service.

Mrs. Williams fills the vacancy left by Dr. Nigel Clarke, who started work at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) today.

In a statement, Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) president, Phillip Ramson, said the group has no doubt that the stewardship of the country’s economy remains in good hands.

He noted however, that it is paramount that Mrs. Williams maintains the mix of fiscal and financial initiatives, that have made Jamaica’s debt-to-GDP ratio more manageable, maintained inflation within targeted margins, and set the central bank on the path to independence.

Mr. Ramson noted that the discipline that characterized Dr. Clarke’s tenure was timely and vital.

He said the nation’s business community is willing to collaborate with the incoming minister, to ensure that the advances made over the past several years continue.