Biden congratulates Jamaica on 62nd Independence Anniversary

The Biden administration on Tuesday congratulated Jamaica on its 62nd anniversary of political independence from Great Britain, saying that Washington and Kingston “have long enjoyed a close and prosperous relationship.”

“On behalf of the United States of America, I send my best wishes to Jamaica as you celebrate your 62nd year of independence,” said US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken. 

“As partners, we are addressing some of the most difficult security and economic challenges in the region and around the globe, including an early and devastating start to the hurricane season,” he added. 

Blinken said the United States and the American people also “appreciate and celebrate Jamaica’s rich culture and global contributions across every sector imaginable. 

“We stand with you to help improve citizen security through the US-Caribbean Basin Security Initiative and Plan Secure Jamaica, and salute your partnership and leadership in strengthening regional security, including the multidimensional crisis in Haiti,” he said. 

Through the US-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis (PACC 2030), the US Secretary of State said both countries are working together to address the impacts of climate change “while bringing a brighter economic future for both of our country’s citizens.”

He said such ties would not be possible without the support of the “vibrant Jamaican diaspora in the United States.” 

“May the year ahead be filled with happiness and success for the Jamaican people,” Blinken said.

According to the National Library of Jamaica, after more than 300 years of British colonial rule, Jamaica gained independence on August 6, 1962. 

“The road to independence was long and hard but, with prominent and instrumental figures such as Sir Alexander Bustamante and Norman Manley, Jamaica gained its freedom for self-governance,” it said. “Becoming independent, Jamaica’s locally drafted Constitution came into effect on August 6, 1962. 

“Independence is celebrated every year and continues to be a well anticipated season, which both reminds us of the significance of political freedom and signals the possibilities of a brighter future,” the National Library of Jamaica added.