RECENTLY appointed United States Chargé d’Affaires to Jamaica Scott Renner has applauded Jamaica for what he describes as its democratic spirit and the mutual respect demonstrated across political parties during the recent electoral period.

“Since being here I have been privileged to witness moments that highlight Jamaica’s democratic spirit; the Grand Gala, the swearing-in of the new prime minister and Cabinet, and I witnessed a remarkable show of mutual respect and bipartisan friendship across the aisle,” said Renner during a brief address at a welcome reception hosted by the United States Embassy in Kingston on Tuesday evening in his honour.

“These experiences have left me deeply impressed with the strength of Jamaica’s democracy and the values we proudly share,” added Renner.

He declared that the reception was not only a personal welcome for him and members of the US mission’s new leadership team, but also a celebration of the enduring relationship between the United States and Jamaica.

“While tonight’s reception marks a welcome for me and our new leadership team, I have already had the pleasure of meeting many of you, and it feels like I am among friends. But more than that, this evening reflects the strong and lasting partnership between the United States and Jamaica,” said Renner.

“I am so happy that this opportunity has brought me to Jamaica. This also marks my first visit here, and in my short time on the island, I have already been struck by the natural beauty of the country and the genuine warmth of its people,” added Renner.

Renner, who is now the highest ranking diplomat at the US Embassy in Kingston pending the appointment of an ambassador by President Donald Trump, stressed the importance of continued collaboration between Jamaica and the United States.

“Through open dialogue and joint action, we ensure that our partnership remains resilient, forward-looking, and impactful for the people we serve.”

Renner is joined in Jamaica by two senior members of the US mission team: George Mathews, the new political economic counsellor, and defence attaché Lieutenant Colonel Angel Lopez Jr.

The welcome event was attended by several government ministers, members of the diplomatic, and private sector communities, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of National Security and Peace Dr Horace Chang, Minister of Education Senator Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr, Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake, and Chief of Defence Staff Vice Admiral Antonette Wemyss-Gorman.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Senator Kamina Johnson Smith (left) holds the attention of Minister of Education Senator Dana Morris Dixon (centre), and recently appointed United States Chargé d’Affaires to Jamaica Scott Renner. (Photo: Naphtali Junior)

Recently appointed United States Chargé d’Affaires to Jamaica Scott Renner underscoring the strong partnership between the two countries, during a reception at the US Embassy in Kingston on Tuesday. (Photo: Naphtali Junior)