Today we extend congratulations to the Government and people of the United States on the commemoration of their 239th anniversary of Independence.

Historical records show that although the Continental Congress voted in favour of Independence from Great Britain on July 2, 1776, it was not until two days later that Mr Thomas Jefferson’s historic document, the Declaration of Independence, was adopted by the Congress’ delegates.

Since then, July 4 has been celebrated as American Independence Day with a range of festivities that have spread to other countries, including Jamaica, which has a significant population of Americans.

Jamaica and the United States have, for many decades, maintained diplomatic relations that have been strengthened by respect for sovereignty, an exchange of cultures, as well as trade in goods and services.

Indeed, the United States is Jamaica’s largest tourism market, providing more than 60 per cent of our total visitors, the overwhelming majority of whom have a great time while they are here.

There were, of course, occasions in the past when Kingston and Washington did not see eye to eye on some issues, particularly during the Cold War period. However, both sides were always able to settle differences through diplomacy. Therefore, our relations never got to the point of suspension or the recall of diplomats.

That is the true measure of a mature relationship in which both sides don’t talk at each other, but engage in constructive and rational dialogue.

That quality of dialogue and diplomacy is evident in the American Government’s recent about-turn in its relationship with Cuba.

Ever since the US imposed an embargo on Cuba just over 50 years ago, Jamaica, and other countries have consistently used diplomatic channels to bring about a change.

We therefore got a feeling of satisfaction when last month, US Ambassador to Jamaica Luis Moreno told this newspaper that the position taken by Jamaica helped to move America towards its decision.

“It was, in the end, I think, the only logical decision to come to. I think it makes sense,” Ambassador Moreno said.

We agree.

But, in addition to how we feel about the Cuba decision we must extend our thanks to the US for its unwavering support for, and assistance offered to Jamaica over the decades.

There’s hardly any sector in this country that has not received some form of aid from the US. And while we acknowledge that the assistance in some sectors — such as national security — is of mutual benefit, we cannot ignore the fact that the offers are made out of a genuine desire to see Jamaica do well.

Of course, the Jamaican Government should work at getting the country to the point where there will be little, if no need, for such heavy assistance.

That aside, we again extend our best wishes to the United States, a country that is now home to many Jamaicans and with which we enjoy great relations.