Jamaica Adopts Neutral Position on Western Sahara Region

The Government of Jamaica has adopted a position of neutrality with respect to the Western Sahara region, referred to as the ‘Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic’ (SADR), at the 71^st Session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, being held in New York.

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says the country’s position of neutrality is intended to allow the ongoing UN process towards a peaceful and mutually acceptable resolution of the conflict in Western Sahara to continue without pre-empting its outcome and to also encourage a process of continued dialogue and negotiation amongst the parties concerned.

The Government remains committed to the principles of peace, security and justice enshrined in the United Nations Charter, which are critical to the attainment of a mutually acceptable and lasting political solution to the dispute in Western Sahara.

The Prime Minister is accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith.

The theme for this year’s Session is ‘The Sustainable Development Goals: A Universal Push to Transform our World’.

The Prime Minister will deliver his presentation in response to the theme on Friday, September 23.

Jamaica’s participation in this year’s session will allow it to engage in discussions on the challenges faced, in efforts to promote sustainable development, encourage greater collaboration with Small Island Developing States by donor countries and enhance South-South cooperation.

The Prime Minister and his delegation will return on Saturday, September 24.

While Mr. Holness is off the island, Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Hon. Dr Horace Chang, will be in charge of the Government.