WASHINGTON, DC, United States (JIS) – New Ambassador to the United States, Ralph Thomas, says energy, security, trade and economic development are among the priorities he intends to pursue at the State and Federal levels.

He added that he will also focus on cooperation in health and education, climate change, food security, and having Jamaica upgraded in the [US] trafficking in-persons report at the bilateral level.

Addressing Jamaicans in the Diaspora, representatives of Federal and State governments and members of the diplomatic corps at a reception held in his honour in Washington, on October 8, Ambassador Thomas said he would be interfacing with US authorities to ensure that the priority areas receive due attention.

The Jamaican envoy, who is also the country’s Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), told the large audience that he will be engaged with hemispheric issues, key among them the promotion and protection of democracy, human rights, security and sustainable development.

Ambassador Thomas said that through collective efforts, these multilateral engagements are critical to ensuring that the region remains stable, and for member countries to advance in the areas of security and economic development.

Turning to the Diaspora, the ambassador said cultural awareness must be promoted, especially among second and third generation Jamaicans; the fraternal bonds between the Jamaican diaspora in the US and Jamaicans back home should be strengthened; and support and guidance must be provided for philanthropic initiatives.

“The time has come when we must mobilise the Diaspora to have a greater voice in the respective communities in which we reside,” said Ambassador Thomas. To this end, he said he would be seeking to promote better youth engagement and exchange between Jamaica and the USA, in which “our next generation can share in our rich cultural heritage.”

The Ambassador assured that he will actively serve, not just those who reside in the District of Columbia metropolitan area, but across the length and breadth of the USA.