The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade continues to monitor the unfolding situations in Haiti and Afghanistan, and is responding to public queries regarding Jamaican nationals in those countries.
Haiti:
Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade has expressed sadness and solidarity in respect of the loss of life and damage to infrastructure caused by the recent earthquake, and exacerbated by Tropical Storm Grace.
In response to public queries regarding Jamaicans in Haiti, the Foreign Minister advised that the Ministry has not received any reports of Jamaicans injured, or having lost their lives in the recent disaster, and that the Ministry continues to monitor the situation on the ground through Mr. Daniel Rouzier, Honorary Consul for Jamaica in Port-au-Prince.Mr Rouzier will continue to keep the Ministry updated on any developments.
Johnson Smith also shared that, “We are engaged through CARICOM and ODPEM and remain ready to provide support through CDEMA, the relevant regional mechanism for emergency response. Furthermore, anyone wishing to assist the relief efforts for Haiti may make financial contributions to a special account, managed by ODPEM, numbered 212387304, (Current Account at NCB Oxford Road Branch). The Haitian authorities advise that at this time, this approach will allow for more targeted support, given the logistical challenges which can occur with the importation of goods.”
Afghanistan:
The Ministry continues to note the evolving political developments in Afghanistan, including the great anxiety of persons seeking to depart that country. The Foreign Minister has advised that at this time, the Ministry is not aware of any Jamaican nationals in that country.
The Foreign Ministry is asking that, in the event that persons are aware of Jamaican nationals who have been impacted by the events in Afghanistan or Haiti, contact be made with the Ministry by email at consular@mfaft.gov.jm or by telephone at (+1) 876-676-4028.
