Expo2020 Dubai Symbolic of Hope and Change – Minister Johnson Smith

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, says EXPO2020 Dubai is “as much a symbol of hope as it is a demonstration that we can do things differently”, against the backdrop of the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking during a media interview at the Expo on February 18, Senator Johnson Smith noted that the global spectacle marks the first official physical gathering of persons for a major event since the pandemic’s onset.

She said its planning, organisation and execution demonstrate that persons can adhere to established safeguards while engaging in regular activities.

“We can [wear] masks, we can [adhere to] sanitisation protocols, we can still socialize, we can still share each other’s culture and food and our histories and demonstrate that the world is still very much connected… [and that] we can still do business [and] be safe together,” the Minister stated.

Senator Johnson Smith said Jamaica had committed to the expo’s concept and participating in it since 2018 when the country was invited by the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“We believe that it’s an opportunity for Jamaica to, not only come to Dubai and come to the world, but to bring the world to Jamaica,” she added.

Senator Johnson Smith, who noted the “strong, friendly and vibrant” diplomatic relations Jamaica shares with the UAE, pointed out that “our participation in this expo is one reflection of this relationship.”

Jamaica’s participation forms part of the UAE’s outreach to encourage Caribbean countries to take part in one of the most globally diverse expos ever organised.

This gesture is intended to provide opportunities for building partnerships, enhancing South-South Cooperation, and forging a legacy of knowledge and co-creation.

A Jamaican delegation, headed by Minister Johnson Smith, attended, and participated in several specifically programmed engagements from February 16 to 20.

They included: activities marking Jamaica National Day on February 18, among them a Flag Raising Ceremony and concert; Diaspora consultations; and country business briefings, targeting potential investors.

They complemented activities within and related to the country’s Pavilion at the event, which highlights Jamaica’s rich culture and heritage.

The Expo, which started on October 1, 2021, concludes on March 31, 2022”.