US Embassy celebrates JULY 4
Highlighting 56 years of friendship with Jamaica
“LET’S CELEBRATE our friendship with Jamaica!” The US Embassy’s Charge d’Affaires, Eric Khant, shared these words on the evening of June 27, when the Embassy commemorated the 242nd anniversary of the Independence of the United States.
Khant and his wife, Halima, hosted more than 400 guests at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel for a festive evening. Attendees included Jamaican Government officials, members of the Opposition, the Diplomatic Corps, the business community and civil society.
To mark the occasion, the Embassy showcased a number of traditional US activities, including the presentation of the Colors by the Embassy’s Marine Security Guard Detachment. Guests also enjoyed delectable dishes, highlighting the dynamism of American culture.
During his official remarks, Khant said: “Jamaica has been one of our closest partners in combating transnational crime,” adding, “we look forward to expanding our already strong security cooperation with Jamaica in the coming years.”
He also asserted that partnerships in the areas of economic investment, health, development and people-topeople ties are at the centre of the unbreakable bond between Jamaica and the United States.
The Jamaican Government was represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, who echoed sentiments of friendship between the nations.
Terri-Karelle Reid served as master of ceremonies for the evening, guiding performances by notable saxophonist Warren Harris, the Jamaica Youth Chorale, and the Jamaica Defence Force Band.