Country’s Achievements Have Helped to Shape Identity on Global Stage – Foreign Minister

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, says Jamaica’s rich history is marked by numerous achievements and milestones that have helped to shape the nation’s identity on the global stage.

Speaking to reporters, following a Plenary Session at the 10th Biennial Diaspora Conference at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James, on June 18, Mrs. Johnson Smith said the conference is an opportunity to reflect on “these accomplishments” and draw inspiration from past successes.

“[By celebrating] the achievements of Jamaicans, both at home and abroad, the conference fosters a sense of pride and unity among all participants, reinforcing the idea that, together, Jamaicans can overcome challenges and reach new heights of excellence,” she noted.

Mrs. Johnson Smith, who publicly acknowledged the presence of Opposition Senators and Shadow Ministers, Damion Crawford and Janice Allen, whom she thanked for being at the conference, said that unity lies at the heart of Jamaica’s strength, and that the ‘One Jamaica’ approach shows the importance of standing together as a nation, regardless of geographical boundaries.

She added that the biennial conference also brought together Jamaicans from all over, notably the United States, Canada and Europe, under a common vision for a prosperous and inclusive Jamaica, noting that by fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity, the conference reaffirms the idea that no matter where Jamaicans reside, they are all part of the same vibrant country (place of origin) that is Jamaica.

Senator Johnson Smith, in the meantime, said that the diaspora’s influence and input are invaluable assets that can enrich policy frameworks and decision-making processes, adding that the four-day conference is neither a talk shop nor an exercise in futility but one that seeks consensus in the pursuit of nation-building and economic stability.

“By actively involving the diaspora in discussions on key issues and policy development, Jamaica can tap into a wealth of knowledge, expertise and innovative ideas that can drive sustainable growth and development. The conference serves as a platform for harnessing the diaspora’s influence, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their perspectives are considered in shaping the nation’s future,” she said.

For his part, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Alando Terrelonge, said the conference represents a platform for Jamaicans, regardless of geographical location, to engage in meaningful conversations, celebrate achievements, and seek consensus on pressing issues.

He said that by harnessing the diaspora’s influence, Jamaica reaffirms its commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive nation that benefits all its citizens, both at home and abroad, adding that as the conference continues to evolve and grow, it will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for positive change, driving Jamaica towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

The 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, which ends on June 19, is being held under the theme ‘United for Jamaica’s Transformation: Fostering Peace, Productivity and Youth Empowerment’.

It serves as a pivotal platform for engaging the Jamaican diaspora in initiatives aimed at national development and societal progress.

It also brings together members of the diaspora, stakeholders from various sectors, and local leaders to explore synergistic strategies that address key challenges and harness opportunities for transformative change.