US Govt Hails Ambassador Marks

Jamaica’s former Ambassador to Washington DC, Senator the Hon. Audrey Marks, has been lauded by the United States (US) Government for her role in furthering relations between the countries during her tenure.

US Deputy Assistant Secretary for Caribbean Affairs, Haiti and Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, Barbara Feinstein, commended Ambassador Marks for highlighting the strength of the US/Jamaican partnership, which was evident during the recent successful visit of Secretary of State, Hon. Marco Rubio, to the island.

She was addressing a farewell reception for Senator Marks hosted by the Embassy of Jamaica at the Organization of American States (OAS) Hall of the Americas in Washington DC on Friday (March 28).

Ms. Feinstein commended Senator Marks on eight years as Ambassador to the US and Permanent Representative to the OAS.

“Some members of the diplomatic corps serve one tour of duty, but you were so exceptional that you were asked by your country to serve on two occasions in this position,” she noted.

Ms. Feinstein said she admired Ambassador Marks for her tenacity, pragmatism, dedication and follow-through, attributes that will serve her well in her new ministerial position, which is focused on efficiency and digital transformation.

In her response, Senator Marks said, “Over the last eight years I have had the honour of witnessing the deep and enduring ties that bind Jamaica and the United States together. Our collaboration, shared values, common goals and people-to-people ties have shaped our countries’ progress in significant ways. The friendships that I have formed and the experience I have had will forever hold a special place in my heart.”

“I must extend my deepest thanks to the Government of the United States, its people and my esteemed bilateral colleagues. Your generosity and spirit of cooperation have made my time here truly unforgettable.

“From high-level meetings and diplomatic discussions to the more personal encounters and warm exchanges, each moment has been invaluable in fostering mutual understanding in strengthening our bond,” she added.

Senator Marks said it was an honour and a privilege to have served as her country’s representative to the OAS and was deeply grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside such resolute and visionary individuals.

Turning to the diaspora, Senator Marks, said she was honoured to have served as the “link between our homeland and each of you”.

“The bonds that unite us, no matter where we are in the world is one that transcends borders,” she expressed.

She noted that she had seen first-hand the contributions the diaspora continues to make to the island in health, education, security and other developmental areas.

These include the adoption of clinics, support for students, medical missions, investment of critical resources “proving that together we can increase Jamaica’s beauty, fellowship and prosperity”.

Senator Marks thanked members of staff at the Embassy and Permanent Mission for their dedication, support and hard work.

“Your commitment to our shared mission has been the cornerstone of all our success. You have all left an indelible mark on me,” she expressed.

Among those also paying tributes were Secretary General of the OAS, Luis Almagro; OAS Assistant Secretary General, Ambassador Nestor Mendez; Dean of the Ambassadors of the Western Hemisphere Accredited to the United States and Dean of the Ambassadors to the OAS, Sir Ronald Sanders; and Professor Emeritus of Stanford University, Donald Harris.

The farewell reception was attended by representatives of the US Government, members of the Diplomatic Corps and the Jamaican Diaspora.