Jamaica bids farewell to OAS Assistant Secretary General Nestor Mendez

WASHINGTON, DC:

Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States, Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson delivered farewell remarks on Wednesday honouring Ambassador Nestor Mendez as he concludes his decade-long tenure as Assistant Secretary General of the hemispheric organization.

Speaking at a special meeting of the OAS Permanent Council, Ambassador Anderson gave recognition to Ambassador Mendez’s “unwavering commitment” and “tireless passion for promoting hemispheric cooperation, social inclusion and development” throughout his distinguished service from 2015 to 2025.

“Ambassador Mendez has served the hemisphere with distinction, diplomacy and unwavering commitment over the past decade,” Anderson stated. “Throughout his tenure, he brought to this role a deep understanding of the challenges facing our region.”

Jamaica particularly highlighted Mendez’s steadfast engagement with Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states and his continued advocacy on issues of central importance to Small Island Developing States. Anderson noted that whether advancing dialogue on youth empowerment, climate resilience, the digital economy or institutional strengthening, “Ambassador Mendez was a consistent voice for equity, partnership and innovation.”

The Jamaican representative commended Mendez’s leadership in strengthening collaboration with The University of the West Indies and his initiatives in education, gender equality and public health. Anderson emphasised that Mendez “was often a bridge between stakeholders, the organisation and civil society, between member states and multilateral partners, always encouraging constructive dialogue and mutual respect.”

ENDURING RESPECT, FRIENDSHIP

The farewell remarks also recognised Mendez’s deep commitment to fostering inclusion and mutual respect across the Americas. Anderson noted his advocacy for celebrating the rich cultural diversity of member states, ensuring that the OAS recognised and honoured national days and commemorative occasions. “His leadership, in this regard, not only promoted unity but also underscored the value of cultural identity as a cornerstone of regional solidarity.”

Ambassador Mendez, a career diplomat from Belize, was first elected as the ninth Assistant Secretary General of the OAS in March 2015 and was unanimously re-elected by the General Assembly in March 2020 for a second five-year term. His tenure concluded on July 11, 2025, and he will be succeeded by H.E Ambassador Laura Gil of Colombia, who becomes the first woman to hold the position in the organisation’s history.

In closing his remarks, the Jamaican representative said: “Ambassador Mendez, your calm diplomacy, infectious energy and unwavering professionalism will be greatly missed in these halls. Thank you for your service. Please rest assured that you will always have the enduring respect and friendship of Jamaica.”

The Organization of American States, founded in 1948, serves as the premier regional forum for political discussion, policy analysis and decision-making in Western Hemisphere affairs, bringing together 35 member states to address hemispheric issues and opportunities.