KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange has told Argentinian Ambassador to Jamaica, Ariel Fernandez, that Jamaica is looking forward to building cooperation with Argentina in areas such as the exchange of professionals, specialists, researchers, students and creators in the different fields of culture and art, as well as in tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

 Ambassador Fernandez met Grange at her ministry today for the signing of an agreement between the Government of Jamaica and the Government of the Argentine Republic on cooperation in the fields of art and culture.

 “We are especially keen on developing collaborations and sharing expertise and knowledge in how we strengthen the role of cultural institutions such as museums and libraries,” the minister explained.

 She said that the signing was long overdue and expressed her appreciation to the ambassador whom she lauded “for the unrelenting stance you have taken in ensuring that this agreement is now a reality”.

 “We are heartened by your commitment and belief in our country and your fervent focus on strengthening diplomatic relations between our nations,” expressed Grange.

Grange said Jamaica was humbled that the people of Argentina took such tremendous pride in the culture of Jamaica, particularly Reggae music.  

 “…This agreement we are signing today transcends music and festivals. The agreement comes at a critical time in the life of my ministry — when we are taking a data-centric approach in culture and creative industries because we must be able to quantify the contribution of the sub-sectors to GDP,” Grange noted.

On a lighter note, Grange observed that Fernandez recently celebrated his birthday and asked that he sees the signing as a gift from Jamaica to him.

“I hope that this occasion will also be seen as a moment for celebration for the government and people of Argentina, as it is for us in Jamaica,” Grange added.

For his part, Ambassador Fernandez said it was most important to Argentina that relations with Jamaica be strengthened, especially in areas that will directly benefit the people of the country.