U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, was among those who took time out to say Happy Independence day to Jamaica and Jamaicans Thursday.
Clinton congratulated the people of Jamaica on behalf of the U.S. as they marked 47 years of independence yesterday.
`Our two nations are united by shared history, common values, and strong cultural, economic, and family ties,` said the Secretary of State. `Jamaicans have contributed so much to the culture and economy of the United States, and together our two countries are working to support democracy, enhance security, and create opportunity across the Caribbean region.`
Jamaica officially marked its 47th year of independence from Britain yesterday, August 6th. In Jamaica, the celebration included the traditional pomp and pageantry, as the Guard of Honor went through their paces and the massed bands played cultural songs at King`s House.
In his Independence Day message, Prime Minister, Hon. Bruce Golding, paid tribute to past accomplishments, and encouraged Jamaicans to reflect on how they could ensure a brighter future for the nation.
He said that the time was opportune to address challenges in the education and justice systems and to adjust the general values and attitudes of Jamaicans, which he said were the `unfinished parts of the Independence crusade`.
In the Diaspora this weekend, the celebration of the annual event will continue with galas, fetes and networking events.
