MESSAGE BY
SENATOR THE HONOURABLE KAMINA JOHNSON SMITH
MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND FOREIGN TRADE
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND FOREIGN TRADE
UNITED NATIONS DAY 2021
October 24, 2021
On the 76th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, Jamaica is pleased to join with the international community in commemorating United Nations Day 2021, under the theme “Building Back Together for Peace and Prosperity”.
In the more than seven decades since its establishment, the United Nations has remained true to its mandate in the area of international peace and security, while addressing existing and emerging development challenges. As an Organization which must evolve to meet the realities of our time, the UN has had to rethink its strategy and find innovative solutions in response to challenging global developments of the 21st century, the COVID-19 pandemic being the most recent. Indeed, during this most difficult period, the UN and its network of specialised agencies have assumed the mantle of leadership in defining and overseeing a global response and recovery process. In this regard, we salute the UN System for its efforts in support of Member States at national, regional and international levels, to contain the disease and lay the foundation for recovery.
Even as it does so, we acknowledge the steadfastness of the Organisation in maintaining critical focus on the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals, addressing the issue of climate change and the continued promotion and protection of human rights for a safer, equitable and just world.
For Small Island Developing States like Jamaica, in particular, the United Nations plays an invaluable role in working towards attaining their development aspirations. The universality of membership and equality of participation which the United Nations affords, bear special significance for global decision-making.
Jamaica’s relations with the United Nations have also been anchored in a mutual commitment to keep the country on a path of sustainable development. The UN System provides important, tangible assistance to the country and we look forward to strengthening this bond of friendly co-operation as we “Build Back Together for Peace and Prosperity”. I therefore use this occasion to commend the thirteen UN Agencies and Offices operating locally, which have supported our developmental goals and continue to have a positive, lasting impact on the lives of our citizens.
As we observe UN Day 2021, the Government of Jamaica reiterates its commitment to the principles of the Charter and to ensuring that the aims and objectives of this noble institution are advanced in fulfillment of the needs of both present and future generations. We re-affirm our will to work together with, and to deliver results for all members of the global community, in the bid to ensure that no one is left behind.
May the UN continue to be an enduring beacon of hope, peace and prosperity, through the ages!
Happy UN Day 2021!