The United States has welcomed Jamaica’s decision to abstain from an October 28 United Nations General Assembly vote calling for an end to Washington’s decades-old economic embargo against Cuba.
US Department of State Deputy Spokesman Luke Ortega told The Gleaner that Jamaica is a partner and that Washington recognises the value of the country’s position.
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Jamaica’s abstention marked a departure from its longstanding practice of supporting the annual resolution, which has repeatedly called on the United States to lift the embargo. The resolution was approved by 130 countries, with 17 voting against and 25 abstaining.
Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith said the decision followed consideration by the Government and reflected its position that Cuba needs domestic reforms and greater integration into the international economic system. She also reiterated Jamaica’s concern about the humanitarian conditions facing the Cuban people and called for dialogue between Washington and Havana.
The Jamaican Government has maintained that its decision was made independently and was not influenced by pressure from the United States.
