The High Commission of Canada in Jamaica hosted its annual Canada Day reception at the Official Residence celebrating the deepening collaboration between Canada and Jamaica.

This event, marking the culmination of Canadian High Commissioner Emina Tudakovic’s tour, brought together government officials, diplomats, media representative,s and key figures from various sectors.

In her address at the event, High Commissioner Tudakovic underscored the flourishing relationship between Canada and Jamaica.

“Here in Jamaica, this Canada Day celebration holds special significance, symbolising the strong and enduring bonds between our two nations,” stated High Commissioner Tudakovic. “Over the past three and a half years, I have had the privilege of witnessing and contributing to numerous initiatives that have solidified our bilateral ties.”

High Commissioner Tudakovic highlighted progress achieved during her tenure. Canada and Jamaica have strengthened their partnership across multiple areas, including increased support for initiatives promoting sustainable development and social justice.

The flagship grant-funding programme, the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives, has been instrumental in investing in local communities across Jamaica and delivering projects in inclusive governance, including diversity, democracy, climate change, environmental sustainability, human rights, 2SLGBTQI+ rights, the rule of law, gender equality, and the empowerment of women and girls.

“Collaboration on multilateral issues has grown stronger, focusing on climate change, emerging health crises and broader security challenges, such as supporting the Security Support Mission in Haiti. Just in April, we concluded a phase of Operation Helios, where Canadian Armed Forces provided training on core peacekeeping skills and combat first aid and carried out validation and integration exercises for over 350 CARICOM troops. As part of our broad support to strengthening rule of law in the region, we have delivered training in key peace and defence sectors, including border security, cryptocurrency and polygraph examination,” the high commissioner stated.

According to Tudakovic, trade partnerships have seen considerable growth, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and renewable energy. Canada remains a top destination for Jamaican students, welcoming thousands annually and continually expanding opportunities for higher education. The commitment to advancing gender equality remains a cornerstone of Canada’s international assistance investments, as exemplified by the successful staging of the Gender Equality Awards.

The recent 8th Bilateral Jamaica-Canada Consultations underscored these efforts, producing a road map for ongoing collaboration on bilateral issues crucial for deepening cooperation.

“Collaboration on multilateral issues has grown stronger, focusing on climate change, emerging health crises and broader security challenges, such as supporting the Security Support Mission in Haiti”

— High Commissioner of Canada in Jamaica Emina Tudakovic

As such, she expressed confidence in the future of Canada-Jamaica relations, emphasising the importance of continued collaboration.

“The world is interconnected and the challenges we face today require us to stand together in solidarity. As my tenure draws to a close, I am confident that the strong foundation we have built will pave the way for even deeper cooperation and shared prosperity,” Tudakovic said.

Representing the Jamaican Government, Minister of Justice Delory Chuck echoed the sentiments of a strong partnership between Canada and Jamaica, acknowledging Canada’s support and commitment. Both participated in a celebratory toast to this long-standing and close partnership.

The garden event, decorated in Canada’s signature red, offered a relaxed and chic atmosphere to welcome the summer season. Guests enjoyed Canadian-inspired cuisine and were treated to a digital display of Canada’s beautiful landscapes from across its ten province and three territories, accompanied by Canadian music. Unique Canadian indigenous ornaments were given as farewell tokens, celebrating the enduring friendship between the two nations.