KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Lisa Hanna, says while the country faces “what is perhaps the greatest challenge in our modern history” caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the nation remains deeply concerned about the thousands of Jamaicans and descendants of Jamaicans all across the world who are affected by the virus.

She said Jamaicans overseas on the frontlines of the fight represent the heart and soul of the nation as they seek to save lives and offer hope to others.

“Our hearts especially reach out to the many families who have lost loved ones and friends to this disease and to those impacted in other ways from the coronavirus,” Hanna said.

She said many Jamaicans live overseas but their hearts reside in Jamaica and they have always rallied around the nation supporting families and national causes through remittances and lending their expertise where required.

She added that Jamaicans at home are very concerned about the impact of the disease on the Diaspora, especially those who work in the healthcare sector and in other capacities on the frontlines.

“We are sadly aware of the many Jamaicans we have lost to the pandemic, particularly in New York and elsewhere in the United States. We are also sadly aware of the many Jamaicans we have lost in the United Kingdom and Canada, where members of our Jamaican diaspora are heavily concentrated in the health and other service sectors. Our prayers are with you,” Hanna said.

She noted that as the borders reopen, Jamaicans at home look forward to the day when we can welcome our family members once again to the land we all love.

“As Jamaicans, we are in this together and we will get through it together. In the meantime, wherever you are in the world please be safe,” Hanna said.