The Jamaican government has denied reports of a brewing diplomatic tension between Jamaica and the United States.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, stated in a media release on Tuesday that members of staff from both countries continue to reside and work in each other’s territory, and are expected to observe the laws of their host country.
Her statement follows media report of a “diplomatic row” between the two countries, after Jamaica refused the granting of diplomatic immunity to the same-sex partner of a new diplomat being posted by the US to Jamaica.
Jamaican laws do not recognise same-sex couples and so the spouse would not qualify for privileges awarded to diplomats in a heterosexual relationship.
“In accordance with diplomatic practice and within the ambit of Jamaica’s Constitution, Jamaica grants privileges and immunities to incoming diplomats, their staff, and families to either reside in or visit the country,” Johnson-Smith said.
“The Government of Jamaica recognises the importance of maintaining the traditions and practices of diplomacy, which have long ensured a seamless relationship with the diplomatic community and supported vibrant and admirable relations with the United States for over 60 years,” she said.
According to media reports, the US State Department has advised that diplomatic visas for three senior Jamaican diplomats serving in the US for the last five-years, will not be renewed when they expire shortly.
Johnson-Smith insisted that there is no diplomatic row between Jamaica and the United States, and assured that both countries continue to enjoy strong and positive diplomatic relations.
“Heads of Jamaican missions in the United States whose tenure will come naturally to an end later this year are already preparing for their transition,” said the Foreign Affairs Minister.
The US Embassy in Kingston also stated on its social media page on Tuesday that both countries “continue to enjoy close ties based on shared values, trade, culture, tourism, and a vibrant diaspora community in the United States”.
“At the conclusion of the five-year period, in the absence of a waiver approved by the [State] Department, the diplomats are expected to end their tour with the bilateral mission and depart the United States. Ambassadors, charges d’affaires and deputy chief of mission are exempt from the five-year accreditation policy. The United States and Jamaica continue to enjoy close ties based on shared values, culture, tourism and a vibrant diaspora community in the United States,” the Embassy said.