(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown) - As Jamaica prepares to celebrate its Sixty-Second Anniversary of Independence on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett stated that the country continues to be a leading voice in international affairs, setting a standard of excellence in sports, music, and the arts and inspiring millions around the world.

In a message congratulating Jamaica's Prime Minister, The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Dr. Barnett praised the country's significant leadership role in regional integration and development.

Jamaica is commemorating this year's Independence Day with the theme "Jamaica 62: One Love to the World”.

The Secretary-General described it as "a fitting expression and reflection of Jamaica's indelible contributions to the Community and profound global impact."

The full message reads as follows:

Prime Minister,

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) congratulates the Government and People of Jamaica on the country’s Sixty-Second Anniversary of Independence, being celebrated under the theme “Jamaica 62: One Love to the World”.

This year’s theme is a fitting expression and reflection of Jamaica's indelible contributions to the Community and profound global impact. Indeed, Jamaica continues to provide a leading voice in international affairs, and has set a standard of excellence in sports, music and the arts, inspiring millions worldwide.

As a Founding Member of CARICOM, Jamaica continues to play a significant leadership role in our pursuit of regional integration and development. This has been demonstrated through diplomacy, international trade, and advocacy on several issues of importance in the critical area of external trade negotiations, for which you, Prime Minister, hold lead responsibility in CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet of Heads of Government. Likewise, we recognise Jamaica’s unwavering support to our sister nation, Haiti, as it charts its path to peace and stability.

Prime Minister, the Caribbean Community continues to stand in solidarity with Jamaica, as communities across the island seek to rebuild following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Beryl.

As Jamaicans unite to celebrate with just pride on this Sixty-Second Anniversary of Independence, we commend your achievements and look forward to continued collaboration towards a stronger, more peaceful and more prosperous future.”

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