Jamaica is providing humanitarian assistance to Venezuela following the devastating earthquakes that have claimed lives, injured scores of people, displaced families, and caused widespread damage to communities.
The announcement was made by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson Smith in a statement on Tuesday.
Johnson Smith said Jamaica’s contribution forms part of a wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM) relief effort being coordinated by the Government of Guyana.
She said the assistance from Jamaica comprises a mix of pharmaceutical supplies and food items intended to support relief efforts in the communities affected by the earthquakes.
The Minister said the assistance reflects Jamaica’s commitment to regional solidarity during times of crisis.
“Although Jamaica is still in its recovery and rebuilding stage, we have not forgotten the hand of friendship extended to us by Venezuela in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Melissa,” Johnson Smith said.
“That support reached us at a difficult hour, and we are moved by the same spirit of friendship and regional solidarity as Venezuela now confronts this tragedy. Jamaica stands with the people of Venezuela as families grieve, the injured receive care and affected communities begin the difficult work of recovery and rebuilding,” she added.
It was noted that in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Venezuela was among the countries that extended support to Jamaica, providing mattresses, sheets, hygiene kits and medical supplies for distribution as part of the country’s emergency response and early recovery efforts.
Johnson Smith said Jamaica and Venezuela have maintained longstanding diplomatic relations, supported by cooperation in areas including energy, trade and disaster response.
It’s really heartwarming to see a dad so determined to be there for his daughter. Did he have to overcome any specific challenges to make it happen?
YES this is a lovely story, it made me smile, good dads are still out there, to God be the glory.