THE Caribbean Community (Caricom) has greatly benefited from the commitment and dedication of the Government and people of Jamaica, Secretary General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque said Monday as he extended congratulations on the country’s 56th Anniversary of Independence.

“Over the years, your country has contributed significantly to the integration movement, and I look forward to continuing this strong track record of dedication to regional integration with you and your Administration,” he said in a congratulatory message toPrime Minister Andrew Holness, who became Caricom chairman on July 1.

Ambassador LaRocque noted that Prime Minister Holness’s assumption of the Caricom chairmanship came at a critical time, as the regional bloc continues to be confronted by many challenges in its quest to build resilience.

“I look forward to working assiduously alongside you and your Government to further realise the aspirations of the Caribbean Community,” he said.

Jamaica marked its Independence under the theme, ‘Jamaica 56: One Love, One Family’.

“The community joins with the Government and people of Jamaica in celebrating this landmark and wishes the country continued success in its path to sustainable development,” the secretary general said.

— CMC