PM Thanks Diplomatic Corps for Support and Commitment to Jamaica

The more than 50 resident and non-resident Heads of Mission, who are currently participating in Diplomatic Week 2023, have been commended by Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, for their support and commitment to Jamaica.

Mr. Holness addressed the large group today (February 28) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade headquarters in downtown Kingston.

“Many of you have stood with us from the outset, never wavering in your support and assistance to us on our journey as an independent nation. Together, you have been fervent supporters of our social and economic objectives, which seek to secure for Jamaica our full potential as an active member of the international community,” he said.

The Prime Minister gave the diplomats an update on Jamaica’s economy, post-COVID recovery efforts, public order and safety, international relations, development goals and digital evolution.

He declared that the country is open for business and investment, particularly in areas such as the special economic zones, the logistics hub initiative, tourism, information and communications technology (ICT), renewable energy, infrastructure development, creative and entertainment sector housing, as well as global services and nearshoring prospects.

“We’re constantly expanding our outreach to see how we can leverage best practices and international standards to improve the ease of doing business in Jamaica,” Mr. Holness said.

“I thank you for the support that you have been giving to us in bringing this vision of Jamaica to life as a country that is open and ready to receive your investments,” he added.

For her part, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, said that the theme for this year’s Diplomatic Week, ‘Transcending Borders, Strengthening Partnerships, Advancing Development’, is a fitting one.

She explained that the theme is indicative of “how we view the importance of our relationship with you and your countries, and how that connects with our role in supporting the national development of Jamaica”.

The Minister acknowledged the many decades of diplomatic friendships enjoyed by Jamaica and members of the international community, noting that the Republic of Sierra Leone’s new consulate in the country brings the total number of honorary consulates hosted in Jamaica to 51.

She informed that the expansion of Jamaica’s diplomatic relations will extend to “five new friends”, namely the Independent State of Samoa, the Republic of Palau, the Republic of Liberia, the Republic of Kiribati and the Marshall Islands.

“We will continue to expand this network, as it ensures that we enhance the potential for greater collaboration with both traditional and non-traditional partners at the bilateral, regional and multilateral levels,” the Minister told the group.

For 2023, Diplomatic Week is being held as a full in-person engagement for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. The observance began on Monday and will continue until Friday (March 3).