KINGSTON, Jamaica – Governor- General, Sir Patrick Allen, says Jamaica continues to strengthen diplomatic ties with countries across the globe.

He cited the establishment of relations with Tunisia and the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire in Africa over the past year, as notable steps taken in this regard.

“With the addition of these countries, Jamaica now proudly maintains formal diplomatic relations with 173 of the 193 Member States of the United Nations.

Jamaica remains resolute in ensuring that our diplomatic engagements, whether at the bilateral, regional or multilateral levels are purposeful, impactful and reflective of our core values. Our relationships with (these) nations are built on shared principles, mutual respect and a common commitment to equity and equality,” he said.

The Governor-General was addressing the recently held annual Diplomatic Corps dinner at King’s House.

He welcomed new Heads of Missions from Malaysia, Angola, Egypt, Norway, the Netherlands, Ethiopia, Austria, Guatemala, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam.

“We …look forward to working together to strengthen the bonds of cooperation between our nations,” he said.

The Governor-General noted that this year’s Diplomatic Week theme: ‘Building Partnerships for a Sustainable Future’ highlights the enduring power of collaboration in today’s interconnected world.

“Sustainable and strategic alliances are not merely beneficial, but they are essential. This is especially true for small island developing States like Jamaica where partnerships play a pivotal role in fostering resilience and driving national development”, he said.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to cultivating strong, dynamic relationships that support our aspirations for growth and progress,” he added.

Jamaica bade farewell to the resident representatives of Canada, Panama, European Union, South Africa, United States of America, Mexico and Brazil.

“We appreciate their contributions, which have resulted in mutual benefits. As we look ahead to another year of collaborative growth, I am encouraged by the dedication that has been shown towards Jamaica’s development. We appreciate that sincerely,” the Governor- General said.

In his remarks, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Deryck Murray, noted that the collaborative efforts of all members of the diplomatic community and their respective missions were instrumental in navigating the COVID 19 pandemic.

Murray said diplomatic relations and international cooperation are key to addressing conflict and charting the course for a sustainable future.

“Today, we face different but similar problems, and we must use the lessons of  COVID and subsequent passage of Hurricane Beryl to call on our power of collaboration to resolve whatever we face – wars, climate change, protection of the marine environment,” he said.

The annual dinner was part of several activities in observance of Diplomatic Week 2025 from March 10 to 14.

–          JIS