Eight New Foreign Diplomats Appointed

Eight new foreign representatives have been appointed to serve as Ambassadors and High Commissioners to Jamaica.

They represent the Kingdom of Denmark, Republic of Korea, State of Israel, Republic of Suriname, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Republic of Peru, and New Zealand.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, made the announcement on March 12 during a reception at the Ministry in downtown Kingston, which formed part of activities marking Diplomatic Days 2024, from March 12 to 14.

She was addressing Ministers of Government, Deans and Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Permanent Secretaries, and leaders of the private sector and civil society groups.

Senator Johnson Smith said the representatives, who presented their credentials to the Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, and Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, are now fully accredited, adding “I could not be more delighted that they are here in Jamaica.”

She noted that the period designated annually for special activities incorporating members of the Diplomatic Corps is geared towards engaging them “in ways that highlight the invaluable partnership that exists between Jamaica and the bilateral partners.”

“This type of engagement allows Jamaica to not only share our priorities on a range of political, socio-economic, cultural, environmental and commercial priorities, but to also familiarise Heads of Missions [with] the range of offerings of our beautiful country,” she added.

Senator Johnson Smith also announced that the Foreign Ministry accounted for over J$4.5 billion in support of national development efforts through cooperation activities with their bilateral partners.

She said more information will be provided during a briefing session with the Diplomatic Corps.