KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, has emphasised the importance of bilateral partnerships for Jamaica “to succeed on its path to economic growth.”

“We recognise that if Jamaica is to succeed in this bold effort, we cannot do it on our own. The Foreign Ministry is therefore focused on building bridges between local and overseas partners,” Johnson Smith said.

The minister was speaking at a church service on February 5 at the Chapel, University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, in observance of Diplomatic Week 2017, from February 5 to 10 under the theme: ‘Growth through Partnerships’.

 The service, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, was attended by members of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassadors-designate, Government officials, as well as past and present employees of the ministry.

Johnson Smith said the theme for Diplomatic Week aptly captures the vision of the Government for Jamaica’s engagement with its partners in the international community.

Additionally, she said the Week presents an opportunity to celebrate the strong alliances formed and bonds of friendship shared with Jamaica’s international partners “which have contributed in a large part to our successes.”

“This is in keeping with one of our key principles of Jamaica’s foreign policy, that is, to bring more friendship and cooperation between Jamaica and other countries around the world,” she added.

Pointing out that the world has become deeply divided along political, ideological and religious lines and the threats to international peace and security becoming increasingly complex, the minister said the need for countries to work together has never been more urgent.

Johnson Smith welcomed the diplomats, especially the eight new Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate from Bangladesh, Finland, Ireland, Morocco, Netherlands, Sudan, Sweden and Switzerland.

“For those here for the first time, especially, I am confident that you will enjoy the opportunity to learn first-hand more about Jamaica,” she said, adding that Jamaica has a rich cultural heritage which has contributed to shaping the country’s development.

During the service, an offering was collected for the Best Care Foundation, custodian of the home for disabled children.