Message from HONOURABLE ALANDO TERRELONGE, MP, JP, Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade,                on the occasion of Jamaica’s 64^th Independence Anniversary

 I extend warm Independence greetings to Jamaicans at home and across the Diaspora as we proudly celebrate the 64th Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence. This is a moment to honour our rich history, celebrate our achievements, and reaffirm our collective commitment to building a stronger, safer and more prosperous Jamaica for present and future generations.

Our Independence Day reminds us of the courage, vision and sacrifice of our National Heroes and all those who fought to secure our freedom and lay the foundation for a sovereign nation. Their enduring legacy continues to inspire us as we strengthen our democracy, expand opportunities for our people and advance sustainable national development. The resilience, creativity and determination of the Jamaican people have enabled our nation to overcome countless challenges while preserving the indomitable spirit that defines us.

Today, we celebrate not only our history but also the remarkable progress Jamaica continues to make. Through prudent leadership, disciplined economic management and the resilience of our people, our country has earned international recognition for its stability and development. Jamaica is now recognised as the most peaceful nation in the Caribbean and the third most peaceful country in the Western Hemisphere. Our economic progress has also been encouraging, with record-low unemployment, declining debt levels, sustained macroeconomic stability, increased investor confidence, and continued growth in key sectors. These achievements represent greater opportunities for employment, stronger public finances, improved resilience and a more secure foundation upon which every Jamaican can build a better future.

Jamaica’s influence extends far beyond our shores. Whether through our athletes, musicians, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, academics, innovators or members of our Diaspora, Jamaicans continue to make an indelible mark across the globe. Our culture remains one of the most recognised and celebrated in the world, while the achievements of our people continue to strengthen Jamaica’s reputation as a nation of excellence, resilience and limitless potential.

Over the past year, our nation has once again demonstrated remarkable resilience. Communities have supported one another in times of need, entrepreneurs have continued to create opportunities, and Jamaicans across the Diaspora have remained steadfast partners in national development. These collective efforts remind us that our greatest strength has always been our unity and our shared belief in Jamaica’s limitless potential.

We also pay tribute to the countless Jamaicans whose daily commitment continues to move our country forward. Our teachers, healthcare workers, members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Jamaica Defence Force, farmers, entrepreneurs, first responders, public servants, faith-based organisations, community leaders and volunteers each play an indispensable role in building a stronger nation.

This spirit of partnership was clearly demonstrated during the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, held in June this year, which brought together members of our global Jamaican family to strengthen partnerships and reaffirm their commitment to Jamaica’s development. We remain deeply grateful for your continued investment, expertise, philanthropy, advocacy and unwavering love for your homeland.

As we continue our journey towards becoming the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business, we remain steadfast in advancing the national goals of Vision 2030 Jamaica. Achieving this vision requires the continued partnership of Government, the private sector, civil society, and our Diaspora.

Independence is far more than a celebration of our past. It reminds us that nation-building is a shared responsibility and that every Jamaican has a role to play in shaping the future we desire.

As we celebrate 64 years of nationhood, let us renew our commitment to unity, integrity, resilience, service and love of country. On behalf of the Government of Jamaica, I extend heartfelt Independence greetings to every Jamaican, whether at home or abroad. May this special occasion renew our sense of national pride, deepen our unity and inspire us all to continue working together in service of the nation we proudly call home.

Happy 64th Independence, Jamaica!