KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith says Jamaica in collaboration with all stakeholders will play its part in forging innovative solutions to common problems within the international aviation sector as it rebounds from the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Senator Johnson Smith was addressing the ceremony to officially launch Jamaica’s candidature for election to Part III of the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for the 2022/25 triennial.

“As a representative of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), we will make important contributions as the world adapts to the changes in the air transport regulatory and operating environments and seek to sustainably grow the aviation industry,” she said.

The elections will be held during the 41st Session of the Assembly in Montreal, Canada from September 27 to October 7, 2022.

The launch was held at the Foreign Affairs building, downtown Kingston, on May 26.

Meanwhile Minister of Transport and Mining, Audley Shaw, in his address said that Jamaica remains committed to working with the ICAO, its other member states and industry stakeholders “to ensure that the rapid growth of our sector continues in a safe, secure and sustainable manner”.

He noted that the country remains united with its regional partners.

“Indeed, our region continues to show our resourcefulness, dedication and harmonisation with the goals and ideals of the industry,” he said.

The ICAO promotes safety, security, and reliability in civil aviation, with the leadership bodies being responsible for ensuring the continued development of international civil aviation.

Being granted a seat on the council would allow Jamaica to participate in the main decision-making processes, enabling the country to better promote its local industry and advance the regional agenda.

This is inclusive of air commerce, maintenance services and training institutions.