Johnson Smith saddened by effects of quake in Turkey and Syria, says no Jamaican affected

Minister of Foreign Affairs Kamina Johnson Smith says no Jamaican has been affected by the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

In a media release Tuesday, Johnson Smith said this was based on reports from Jamaica's mission in Geneva and the Honorary Consul in Istanbul.

However, she noted that she has been advised "indirectly and informally of a Jamaican woman who has been living in Turkey, is safe and will be leaving that country later this week."

Johnson Smith also stated that she would soon announce the date of availability of the portal her ministry is developing to allow Jamaicans travelling overseas temporarily to register themselves.

She noted that "it will be an important tool in helping to locate Jamaicans who may be caught up in emergency situations while travelling overseas and in need of assistance."

In the meantime, the foreign affairs minister has expressed deep sadness at the significant loss of life and property destruction from Monday's earthquake.

She noted that international search and rescue operations have been widely activated and recognised the quick response of the global community in providing assistance.

“We offer our deepest condolences to the Governments and people of Turkey and Syria at this time. We hope that, given the scale of the crisis, assistance will reach those who need it quickly. Our thoughts and prayers and with them as the situation continues to unfold,” she stated.

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