Justice Minister Hails Relationship with European Union

Minister of Justice, Hon. Delroy Chuck, has hailed Jamaica’s relationship with the European Union (EU) as a “vibrant partnership” for solid development and collaboration in key sectors.

Mr. Chuck, who was speaking at a special celebration of Europe Day, held on May 9 at the residence of the EU Ambassador to Jamaica in Jack’s Hill, St. Andrew, said that for over 40 years Jamaica has received “reliable” support for “our national economic growth and social development objectives”.

He also highlighted that the EU development partnership continues to be relevant in relation to national priorities, and evident in ongoing projects, such as agriculture, justice reform, maternal health and climate change.

“Although these projects are at various stages of implementation, they are all designed to buttress our national efforts towards the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” the Minister said.

Mr. Chuck added that the EU is playing a “critical role” in the Government’s Justice Sector Reform, and the support will “greatly” assist in Jamaica achieving its objective of building a secure, cohesive and just society.

Emphasising that the EU-Jamaica partnership extends beyond national borders, the Minister said “we share common positions on many critical issues”, noting that the EU’s commitment, as well as its leadership and contribution to achieving global peace and unity, “lies at the heart of every Europe Day celebration”.

Meanwhile, Head of the EU Delegation to Jamaica, Ambassador Malgorzata Wasilewska, told the gathering that there is a commitment to partnering with the Government to create an enabling environment for all Jamaicans.

“There are new markets on both sides. Tourism creates great opportunities, knowledge sharing, cultural exchanges and academic exchanges, so there is richness on both sides,” she said.

Europe Day is observed in all EU Delegations and offices across the world. This year marks the 61st anniversary of the signing of the Rome Treaties, which signalled the beginning of a united Europe.