Jamaicans seeking to access services at the United States Embassy in Kingston should benefit from the bigger and better facilities at the embassy’s new home at Old Hope Road, which was declared officially opened yesterday.

Governor General Prof Kenneth Hall, Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, and members of the diplomatic corps were on hand to witness the dedication of the new building, which was built at a cost of US$72 million.

Glen Guimond, public affairs officer at the embassy, said long visa lines should be eliminated, because of the investment at the new facility.

He said that along with some other changes, everyone seeking a visa, whether immigrant or non-immigrant, would now be required to make an appointment.

Meanwhile, US Ambassador Brenda LaGrange Johnson said the new home reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to its relationship with Jamaica.

“We will continue working together to promote prosperity, regional security and mutual understanding,” she said. “We will continue to develop a strong partnership as we face the evolving challenges of this century.”

Here former United States ambassadors to Jamaica Gary Cooper (left), Stanley McLelland (2nd left) and Sue Cobb (right) along with current ambassador Brenda LaGrange Johnson (second right) and director of overseas building operations Charles Williams cut the ribbon signalling the official opening of the new facilities for the US Embassy on old Hope Road in Kingston, yesterday.

(Photo: Joseph Wellington)