KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Governor General, Sir Patrick Allen, has hailed the fundamental role which he says diplomats continue to play in maintaining strong relations between Jamaica and the various countries they represent.

He noted that the just concluded Diplomatic Week celebrations helped to illustrate Jamaica’s gratitude for their continued support and valuable interactions.

The Governor General was addressing a cocktail reception and dinner hosted in honour of the Diplomatic Corps in Jamaica at King’s House on February 9.

It was held as part of activities to marking Diplomatic Week 2017, from February 5 to 10.

The Governor General noted that for nearly two decades, Diplomatic Week has been providing “the opportunity for mutual dialogue and exchange between our diplomatic communities, particularly (for) those (representatives who) are non-resident.”

“Of importance is the opportunity to renew acquaintances, establish new contacts, experience first-hand interaction with the Jamaican people, with insights into our way of life, especially the many nuances which make us distinctively Jamaican,” he said.

The Governor General further acknowledged the support of the Governments of the various diplomats in helping Jamaica to achieve notable milestones, particularly over the last two years.

Key among them, he said, was Jamaica’s election to the Inter-American Commission for Human Rights (IACHR), and the Executive Board of the World Health Organisation (WHO).

In his remarks, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Dr José Tomas Ares, thanked the Government and people of Jamaica for the continued warmth and hospitality extended to diplomats.

 “Each year, my colleagues and I eagerly await Diplomatic Week (which) continues to be a momentous occasion in which Jamaica showcases its legendary hospitality. My colleagues can agree with me that, once again, our expectations have been fulfilled. We express our gratefulness for Jamaica’s kind reception,” he said.

Dr Tomas Ares said the diplomats also appreciated the many enjoyable experiences they have had, and the wealth of knowledge garnered about Jamaicans’ way of life.

“Throughout the years (of) living in this beautiful country Jamaica, we, as diplomats, have gained knowledge, not simply of how to make policies and promote trade, but also learned of the habits and cuisine of the nation,” he said.

Additionally Dr Tomas Ares said the diplomats also appreciated the level of support they continue to receive, and committed to expanding the ties between Jamaica and their respective countries, “following an approach based on mutual respect and commonly held values and principles.”

Diplomatic Week was held under the theme “Growth through Partnerships”. Jamaica currently enjoys diplomatic relations with 160 countries.