The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith has advised that the Ministry continues to closely monitor the welfare of the Jamaican Community in China regarding the spread of the Coronavirus across that country.
Minister Johnson Smith noted, “Since my last communication to the media, our Embassy in Beijing has strengthened its outreach to Jamaicans in the Wuhan area of Hubei Province. The number of persons with whom we are in contact via WhatsApp chat group has now increased to 29, as we have added persons there, who had not previously registered with the Embassy.
“In addition to using the Embassy’s email, the chat group has been instrumental in facilitating the registration of Nationals with the Embassy and for allowing them to keep in touch with each other for support. Our Embassy staff has also of course been fielding telephone calls from Jamaican nationals in other locations in China and offering advice and guidance.”
The Foreign Minister advised that in order to address the concerns being raised by the persons in the Wuhan group regarding food and supplies, the Embassy was able to obtain from the Hubei Foreign Affairs office a list of 24-hour hotlines available to foreigners to provide them with assistance and guidance during the crisis. This was immediately shared with our Nationals and we understand that they have since had direct assistance through this medium. She assured that the Embassy will follow up with the authorities on their behalf if they experience further challenges, while also recognizing that all persons in Wuhan are going through a challenging time.”
The Foreign Minister also advised “The Embassy participated in a briefing of the Diplomatic Corps in Beijing on 28th January 2020 which addressed comprehensive efforts by the Chinese Government to curtail the spread of the Coronavirus and to treat those affected while also addressing the WHO position on its status. Here in Jamaica, we continue to work closely with Health and Wellness Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton and his team, and have also had discussion with members of the Diplomatic Corps concerning international cooperation and measures to manage developments as they unfold.”
Senator Johnson Smith advised Jamaican nationals in China to continue to monitor information and advisories issued by both Chinese and Jamaican officials and to cooperate in all efforts to contain the spread of the virus.
She added “I am encouraging persons here in Jamaica who have families or associates in China, to make contact with them and inform the Ministry here in Kingston of any new circumstances.”
You are also encouraged to contact the Consular Affairs Department of the Ministry to register them at the following telephone numbers and specially designated email address:
(876) 564-4221 and (876) 472-3584 Travelregistration@mfaft.gov.jm
