Two of Jamaica’s most experienced diplomats have been appointed to key international posts, according to Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith.
Diedre Mills has been named Ambassador-designate to the Kingdom of Belgium and Head of Mission to the European Union, while Ambassador Esmond Reid will take up duties as Jamaica’s Plenipotentiary Representative to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
“Both diplomats have demonstrated exceptional dedication to public service and bring with them decades of experience in advancing Jamaica’s foreign policy objectives,” said Johnson Smith. “I have full confidence in their ability to navigate complex international environments, build strategic partnerships, and effectively advocate for Jamaica’s interests on issues ranging from trade and development, to regional cooperation and global diplomacy.”
Mills, a veteran of the Jamaican Foreign Service with over 25 years of experience, has held a number of senior positions, including Jamaica’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York and Deputy High Commissioner in London. She has also led the Multilateral Affairs and Bilateral Relations departments at the Ministry and served as Jamaica’s lead negotiator in major global processes such as the UN High Seas Treaty and disarmament negotiations.
Her posting to Brussels comes at a critical time, with Jamaica strengthening ties with the European Union and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) to bolster trade, investment, and development cooperation.
Ambassador Reid, who brings more than 30 years of diplomatic experience, most recently served as High Commissioner to Nigeria, with concurrent accreditation to several countries in West and Central Africa. He has also served as Under-Secretary for Foreign Trade and represented Jamaica at major international organizations including the World Trade Organization, the United Nations, and CARICOM.
His appointment to CARICOM comes ahead of Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ Chairmanship of the Conference of Heads of Government in July, during a pivotal moment for regional integration and progress within the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).
Both diplomats are expected to assume their new roles imminently.
