Page 2 harks back to the Bastille Day reception held at the French Embassy in Kingston on July 12.
Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith, in her remarks, underscored the strong relationship between France and Jamaica, built on the foundational values of freedom, self-determination, and equal rights and justice.

“Jamaica’s own journey as an independent nation has been shaped by our fierce commitment to freedom, self-determination and human rights, with a similarly deep belief in equal rights and justice. Throughout the decades these shared beliefs have remained a central pillar of the affinity between our two countries,” Johnson Smith declared.

It was also a moment to honour French Ambassador to Jamaica Olivier Guyonvarch and his wife, Boulie Jeong, as they conclude their four-year posting in Jamaica this year. Ambassador Guyonvarch commended the French Embassy team for its achievements, as well as the friendships made during his tenure.

“These past four years in Jamaica have been magnificent for Boulie and myself. The Jamaican sun will remain forever in our hearts. Because that sun is not in the sky, that sun is in your smiles,” Guyonvarch said.

Capping off the evening, veteran reggae artiste Bongo Herman delighted guests with an energetic performance.

Photographer: Joseph Wellington