The world has become a global village where countries maintain diplomatic relationships in the realm of economy, politics, and even sports. Yes, believe it or not, many states came together and strengthened their relations with the help of sports such as football, cricket, and basketball. These athletes take on the role of diplomatic staff, which improves the relationship between the two states and aids in opening doors to more opportunities for collaboration. A great example of this can be Jamaica and the Republic of Chile, which is now looking to collaborate in the field of sport. The Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister and Senator, Kamina Johnson Smith, revealed this while speaking at a luncheon for the 212th Anniversary of Chile’s Independence, Courtleigh Hotel and Suites, Kingston.
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Even countries with severed ties come together when it comes to sports.
The Chile-Jamaican Ties
Senator Johnson Smith stated that the conversation with the Republic of Chile had initially started when the two countries planned to collaborate in the areas of technical cooperation surrounding food product labeling, well-being, and health. The two states have been actively working together in defense, diplomatic training, air services, and even promoting Spanish as a foreign language. The Senator also commented on how the Jamaican public has been benefiting from the Spanish Language Training Programs, which have completed their three cycles in the year 2018, 2019, and 2020, respectively. The Spanish learning program has opened doors for public sector workers to not only enhance their prospects but also improve their communication with their Latin American neighbors. Language plays a major role in bringing people together.
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The Permanent Thing
The language program has been proven beneficial for the Ministry staff members who have been attending the program through the Andres Bello Diplomatic Academy of Chile. Now the Ambassador of the Republic of Chile to Jamaica, Constanza Figueroa, hosted the luncheon and Her Excellency also mentioned that she was looking forward to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding for the training of the future diplomats through the Andres Bello Diplomatic Academy of Chile in December. Now, more Jamaican citizens will have access to Spanish language classes.
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United For Sports
In the Luncheon, when the topic of the Pan-American and Para Pan-America Games, she mentioned that she was indeed looking forward to Jamaica’s participation in the games that are to be scheduled in Chile next year. In the statement, Ambassador Figueroa also acknowledged the number of fans in Chile that look up to the Jamaican Athletes who will be participating in the games in 2023.
Now, if you are wondering what Pan-American Games is all about, then look no further. These games are continental multi-sport events that feature the states on the American continent, including North and South American and Latin America as well. Pan-American Games are set to take place from 20th October 2023 till 5th November 2023. It seems like Jamaica and the Republic of Chile are already looking forward to this event; what about you?