ST JAMES, Jamaica — Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Alando Terrelonge, says Jamaica must position itself to take advantage of global advances in science, technology and sustainable development, through stronger partnerships with its diaspora and international stakeholders.

Speaking at a commencement session at the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St James on Monday, Terrelonge said rapid global transformation presents significant opportunities for national growth and innovation.

“Around the world, we are witnessing breakthroughs in science and technology, new approaches to sustainable development, and innovative models of partnership that are transforming industries and improving lives,” he said.

“These advancements remind us that progress is possible when vision is matched with determination and when ambition is supported by collective action,” the state minister added.

Terrelonge argued that Jamaica’s diaspora is uniquely positioned to help connect the country with expertise, emerging technologies, global markets and investment opportunities.

He underscored that members of the diaspora continue to play a significant role in facilitating knowledge-sharing and expanding access to international networks.

The state minister further emphasised that innovation must be supported by collaboration if countries are to effectively navigate increasingly complex global realities.

“Today we convene at a time when the world is experiencing rapid transformation. Technological advancement, economic shifts, environmental challenges, and evolving social dynamics continue to reshape the way we think, the way we live, the way we work, and the way we interact,” he said.

Terrelonge maintained that conferences such as the Jamaica Diaspora Conference create valuable opportunities for stakeholders to exchange ideas and identify practical solutions to shared challenges.

“The true measure of this conference will not be the number of presentations delivered or the discussions held, but the actions that follow,” he said.

“The insights generated here should inform policies, influence strategies, inspire innovation, and contribute to tangible outcomes that benefit all our people,” Terrelonge continued.

He encouraged participants to actively engage in the discussions, workshops and networking sessions, noting that meaningful partnerships often emerge through sustained dialogue and collaboration.

The state minister expressed optimism that the conference will help strengthen existing relationships, while creating new opportunities for engagement between Jamaica and its diaspora.

The 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference is being held under the theme ‘Diaspora Partnerships: Rebuilding a More Climate-Resilient Jamaica’.