Ambassador Ralph Thomas presents Letters of Credence to US President

Jamaica’s new Ambassador to the United States, Ralph Thomas, officially presented his Letters of  Credence to President Barack Obama, during a ceremony held in the Oval Office at the White House on Thursday.

In his remarks,  Obama said Jamaica and the United States are tied by history, culture, family and friendship, and expressed strong support for the Government and people of Jamaica and the continued development of  the special relationship that exists between the two countries, including the fight against transnational crime. 

“We have supported your exemplary effort by providing training and equipment to the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Jamaica Defence Force as well as working to improve overall security within the Caribbean basin,” the President said.

He also highlighted the Jamaica Clean Energy Programme, supported by the United States Agency for International Development, which he said "will help pave the way for clean energy development in Jamaica."

In that regard, he asserted that "clean, diverse and reliable sources of energy are keys to ensuring the economic prosperity of your island."

Thomas promised that, during his tenure, he will work to further deepen and strengthen the relationship between Jamaica and the US.

He commended the American Government for the assistance and support it continues to give to Jamaica, citing areas such as HIV/AIDS prevention, education, human rights, and longstanding programmes administered through USAID and the US Peace Corps.

He also noted the support provided to the Caribbean region under the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI).

He acknowledged as well that that a significant number of Jamaicans have made the US their home, “cementing the bonds between our people beyond the formal level of engagement.”

SOURCE: JIS