Jamaica announces recognition of State of Palestine

Kingston: Jamaica announced on Wednesday its recognition of the State of Palestine, bringing the number of countries that recognise the State of Palestine to 142 countries.

"Jamaica continues to advocate for a two-state solution as the only viable option to resolve the longstanding conflict, guarantee the security of Israel and uphold the dignity and rights of Palestinians. By recognising the State of Palestine, Jamaica strengthens its advocacy towards a peaceful solution," Jamaica's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson Smith said following deliberations in her country's Cabinet.

"The decision is aligned with Jamaica’s strong commitment to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, which seek to engender mutual respect and peaceful co-existence among states, as well as the recognition of the right of peoples to self-determination," she explained.

She continued reiterating Jamaica’s concerns regarding the war in Gaza and the ever-deepening humanitarian crisis, together with the Government’s advocacy for a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through diplomatic dialogue rather than military actions.

Jamaica's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade reaffirmed Jamaica’s support for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages and increased access to humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza, especially the many women and children who are suffering daily.

Since 1988, 139 of the 193 UN Member States recognized the State of Palestine.