WASHINGTON, USA – The permanent council of the Organisation of American States (OAS) observed a moment of silence on Thursday last, in honour of former Deputy Prime Minister and Ambassador to the United States, Seymour Mullings. Mullings served as Jamaica’s Permanent representative to the OAS between 2001 and 2004.

In paying tribute to Mullings, Jamaica’s permanent representative to the OAS, Ambassador Stephen Vasciannie noted that the late ambassador served with honour and humility and played a strong leadership role in promoting the interest of Jamaica within the OAS. Vasciannie said that Mullings will be remembered for his calm diplomacy, sound judgment and determined support for CARICOM development imperatives.

Assistant Secretary General of the OAS, Ambassador Albert Ramdin said, “Jamaica has lost an outstanding diplomat and statesman.” He pointed out that Mullings served Jamaica with great distinction while he was Jamaica’s permanent representative to the OAS.

A condolence book for the late former Ambassador was opened at the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington DC on Friday, and will be opened daily for signatures from 10:00 am and 4:00 pm through Wednesday, October 23, 2013. Ambassador Vasciannie was the first person to sign the book.

Ambassador Mullings died on October 10, 2013 at age 82, after a long illness. He will be accorded an official funeral by the government of Jamaica on Thursday, October 24, commencing at 11:00 am at the St Matthew’s Anglican Church in Claremont, St Ann.