The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is responsible for facilitating and coordinating Jamaica’s international relations; it also manages Jamaica’s embassies, high commissions and consulates overseas. In order to adjust easily to the continually expanding international environment and ensure Jamaica’s national development, the country seeks to maintain an active foreign policy based on principles of national interest, accountability, professionalism and adaptability. Jamaica thus enjoys formal diplomatic ties with many countries, most of which have embassies, high commissions and consulates in Kingston, the capital. Jamaica is a member of the United Nations (UN) and its specialised agencies; the Organization of American States (OAS); the Commonwealth; the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM); the G-77; the African, Caribbean and the Pacific Group of states (ACP); the Caribbean Community (CARICOM); and the Association of Caribbean States (ACS).
Jamaica shares diplomatic ties with many countries. There are about 40 foreign embassies and consulates in Jamaica, most of which are located in the capital, Kingston. Jamaica maintains close ties with the USA, Canada and the UK, all of whom have supported extensive development initiatives in the country. In addition, Japan, through its embassy in Kingston, has contributed significantly to government-led development projects and charity-run outreach programmes. Jamaica also maintains valuable diplomatic relations with Brazil, Cuba, the Caribbean islands and other countries that have supported its continued growth.
Jamaica maintains embassies, high commissions and consulates in over 70 countries around the world, giving it an extensive network to maintain healthy foreign relations. As a member of the United Nations (UN), Jamaica works towards international economic development, security and peace and maintains a permanent mission in New York, USA, and Geneva, Switzerland. To strengthen Jamaica’s commitment to promoting Caribbean unity, and its support of regional economic integration, the country maintains embassies in the Caribbean islands and forms part of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Association of Caribbean States (ACS). As part of the country’s foreign policy objectives, Jamaica seeks to further expand upon its diplomatic presence in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and South America. Embassies and other foreign missions can be contacted for information on consular matters such as visas, passports and travel.
