Panel Discussion to Explore Jamaica’s Contribution to World Affairs

Jamaica’s presence in the international arena has resonated on various levels since the country gained independence in 1962.
In recognition of the country’s contribution to international affairs, the Government Communication Group will host its third panel discussion entitled: Jamaica in the International Arena on Tuesday (Jan. 24) at the Media Centre, Office of the Prime Minister.
This discussion forum, slated to begin at 10:00 a.m., will feature such prominent Caribbean and national figures as Sir Shridath Ramphal, Chancellor Emeritus, University of the West Indies; Professor Kenneth Hall, Pro Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of the West Indies, Mona; and Senator Delano Franklyn, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade (MFAFT).
Sir Shridath was the chief negotiator for the Caribbean on external economic relations from 1997 to 2001. He was also the former chairman of the board of directors, International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, Stockholm from 1995 to 2001. His contribution will explore whether Jamaica is a leader or follower in the globalised world.
Professor Kenneth Hall, editor of at least eight books some of which cover the region’s international presence, will give an historical perspective of Jamaica’s contribution to the international community, while Senator Franklyn will speak on the topic: ‘Jamaica in the international arena: A foreign policy based on principle.’
Senator Franklyn once served as chief advisor to Prime Minister, P. J. Patterson and has four published books, which examine contemporary Jamaica, some focussing more on the Jamaican contribution to Caribbean and world politics.
The Government Communication Group’s series of panel discussions are designed to analyse Jamaica’s progress toward achieving growth and to determine the next steps to reach national goals.
The monthly discussions began in November with a focus on ‘Fighting poverty, the past, the present, the future,’ which was addressed by Dr. Wesley Hughes, Director General of the Planning Institute of Jamaica and Dr. Jaslin Salmon, head of the Poverty Alleviation Programme. The session in December dealt with governance with Professor Trevor Munroe, Dr. Carlton Davis and Dr. Herbert Thompson serving as panellists.
This month’s meeting is timely as it falls within Diplomatic Week and on the cusp of a number of activities surrounding CARICOM, as regional leaders converge on Kingston, Jamaica to engage in the symbolic signing of the CARICOM Single Market.