WASHINGTON, DC – President Barack Obama says, “Jamaica is a vital partner for the United States in the struggle 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.
President Obama, in welcoming Jamaica’s new ambassador, His Excellency Ralph Thomas to the US, at a ceremony in the Oval Office at the White House on Thursday Sept. 17, 2015, said the US is working with the government of Jamaica to improve the country’s energy diversity and security.
“The Jamaica Clean Energy Programme supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will help pave the way for clean energy development in Jamaica. Clean, diverse and reliable sources of energy are keys to ensuring the economic prosperity of your island,” he added.
The US President assured Ambassador Thomas that Jamaica is a vital partner For United States and he is looking forward to working together to “advance our common agenda as we deepen further the strong and abiding friendship of our two countries.”
In presenting his Letter of Credence to President Obama, Ambassador Thomas commended the US government for the numerous assistance and support it continues to give to Jamaica. He pointed out the support in the areas of HIV in education and human rights. Longstanding programs, such as those administered through USAID and US Peace Corps.
He also made reference to the tremendous support with respect to developing financing in the areas of energy climate change and disaster emergency management, and for funding and support provided to the Caribbean region under the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI).
He had high praises for the US assistance in supporting Jamaica’s effort to combat crime and corruption. He further added that a significant portion of the Diaspora has made the US their home, cementing the bonds between our people beyond the formal level of engagement.
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