Private Sector Dialogue – Toward a Prosperity Agenda

As economic competition intensifies and global supply chains continue to shift, leaders from across the Americas are increasingly focused on a central question: how can the region convert its vast resources, talent, and strategic advantages into sustained prosperity? 

On June 21, 2026, Meridian International Center partnered with the Organization of American States (OAS) to convene senior government officials, multilateral leaders, and private sector executives in Panama City for Private Sector Dialogue - Toward a Prosperity Agenda (Positioning the Americas for the New Wave of Opportunity). Held on the margins of the OAS General Assembly, the dialogue explored how stronger public-private collaboration can accelerate economic growth, strengthen regional competitiveness, and unlock new opportunities across the hemisphere. 

Throughout the discussion, participants emphasized that the Americas possess many of the assets needed to compete in an increasingly complex global economy. From critical minerals and energy resources to growing innovation ecosystems and entrepreneurial talent, the region is well positioned to play a larger role in shaping future economic growth. Realizing that potential, however, will require greater coordination between governments, businesses, and international partners. 

Opening the program, OAS Secretary General Albert Ramdin called for a more ambitious and action-oriented approach to regional cooperation. 

"Today's discussion must be more than just an exchange of ideas; it's about defining a path forward." 

A recurring theme throughout the dialogue was the need to move beyond traditional resource extraction and toward higher-value economic activity. Speakers highlighted opportunities to strengthen regional supply chains, invest in advanced manufacturing, and develop the technological capabilities necessary to compete in emerging industries. Participants stressed that investments in education, workforce development, and innovation will be essential to ensuring the region can capitalize on advances in artificial intelligence and other transformative technologies. 

Energy security and critical resources also featured prominently in the discussion. As demand for reliable energy supplies and critical minerals continues to grow, participants examined how countries across the hemisphere can leverage their resources while creating greater value within the region. Rather than viewing energy solely through the lens of production, speakers emphasized the importance of developing local talent, strengthening infrastructure, and building resilient supply chains capable of supporting long-term growth. 

Trade and connectivity emerged as another key priority. Despite the region's geographic advantages and economic potential, participants noted that intra-regional trade remains significantly lower than in many other parts of the world. Improving infrastructure, modernizing customs processes, expanding digital connectivity, and reducing barriers to investment were identified as practical opportunities to strengthen economic integration and improve competitiveness across the Americas. 

The dialogue also highlighted the importance of creating stable and predictable environments for investment. Speakers underscored that economic growth is closely linked to strong institutions, transparency, legal certainty, and effective governance. Building confidence among investors and businesses, participants noted, will be critical to attracting capital and accelerating development throughout the region. 

A major outcome of the event was the launch of the OAS Private Sector Initiative of the Americas, a new platform designed to strengthen collaboration among governments, businesses, and strategic partners across the hemisphere. The initiative aims to identify priority investment opportunities, mobilize expertise and capital, and create practical pathways for advancing economic development and regional cooperation. 

Representing Meridian International Center, Senior Vice President Puru Trivedi reaffirmed Meridian's commitment to strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors and advancing dialogue that delivers tangible outcomes for communities across the Americas. 

As the region navigates a rapidly evolving global landscape, participants agreed that the Americas has a unique opportunity to translate its economic strengths into long-term prosperity. The discussion reinforced a growing consensus that stronger public-private partnerships, greater regional connectivity, and sustained investment in innovation and human capital will be essential to building a more competitive, resilient, and prosperous hemisphere.