CARICOM has greatly benefited from the commitment and dedication of the Government and people of Jamaica, Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque has said as he extended congratulations on the country’s 56th Anniversary of Independence.

“Over the years, your country has contributed significantly to the integration movement and I look forward to continuing this strong track record of dedication to regional integration with you and your administration”, the Secretary-General said in a congratulatory message to Jamaica’s Prime Minister Mr Andrew Holness.

The Secretary-General noted that Prime Minister Holness’ assumption of the CARICOM Chairmanship  came at a critical time as the Caribbean Community continues to be confronted by many challenges in its quest to build resilience. Mr Holness became chairman on 1 July 2018 and chaired the recent 39th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

“I look forward to working assiduously alongside you and your government to further realise the aspirations of the Caribbean Community,” Ambassador LaRocque said.

Jamaica marked its Independence Anniversary on Monday 6 August 2018 under the theme “Jamaica 56, One Love, One Family”.

“The Community joins with the Government and people of Jamaica in celebrating this landmark and wishes the country continued success in its path to sustainable development,” the Secretary-General said.