Trump Welcomes Jamaica’s New Ambassador, Pledges Stronger Bilateral Ties
July 26, 2025 | Jamaica Live News Desk
Jamaica Live | INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Washington, D.C. — The Government of Jamaica marked a significant diplomatic milestone this week as His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, former Commissioner of Police, formally presented his Letters of Credence to President Donald Trump, officially assuming his role as Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States.
The ceremony took place on Thursday, July 24, 2025, inside the historic Oval Office at the White House, symbolizing not only a personal achievement for Ambassador Anderson but also the renewal of over six decades of close bilateral ties between Jamaica and the United States.
A Legacy of Service Continues
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) extended its heartfelt congratulations to Ambassador Anderson, praising his continued commitment to public service and national advancement. The JCF highlighted its enthusiasm for deepening cooperation with U.S. law enforcement counterparts, particularly in the areas of transnational crime, security, and intelligence-sharing.
Trump Affirms Enduring U.S.-Jamaica Relations
In his welcoming remarks, President Donald Trump underscored the strong historical, cultural, and economic ties that bind the two nations.
“It signifies more than 60 years of friendship between our nations and our enduring commitment to trade, investment, and security,” said President Trump.
The U.S. President reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to strengthening the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) and intensifying collaboration on regional matters, particularly the situation in Haiti.
“We see opportunities to work together on expanding trade and promoting more U.S. investment into Jamaica, particularly in areas such as energy and tourism,” Trump emphasized.
President Trump also expressed confidence in Ambassador Anderson’s leadership and welcomed him warmly to Washington:
“Mr Ambassador, I look forward to working with you to advance our common agenda and deepen the bonds between our countries. It is a pleasure to welcome you to Washington.”
Ambassador Anderson Pledges Stronger Bilateral Partnership
In his remarks, Ambassador Anderson expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and conveyed heartfelt greetings from Prime Minister Andrew Holness and the people of Jamaica.
“Jamaica’s and the United States’ relationship is deeply rooted in shared history, cultural ties, people-to-people connections, and geographic proximity,” said Anderson.
He pointed to the longstanding cooperation between both nations in security, health, and energy, and praised the U.S.-Jamaica security alliance for strengthening Jamaica’s crime-fighting capabilities and enhancing regional stability.
“Jamaica deeply appreciates our strong and enduring security partnership with the United States… As Ambassador, I look forward to working closely with your administration to deepen and expand this critical partnership in pursuit of a safer and more secure Western Hemisphere,” Anderson stated.
He also emphasized economic diplomacy, identifying trade, investment, and tourism as priorities. He noted that the U.S. remains Jamaica’s largest trading partner and a leading source of visitors.
High-Level Engagements Continue
Ambassador Anderson referenced the March 2025 visit of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Jamaica, calling it a testament to the robust bilateral relationship.
“His visit underscored the strength of our bilateral relationship and reaffirmed the spirit of partnership that continues to guide our engagements.”
Looking Ahead
With the formalities now complete, Ambassador Anderson will begin his official duties as Jamaica’s chief diplomat in Washington, D.C., overseeing the advancement of mutual goals in areas such as security, energy, trade, education, and migration.
The credentialing ceremony represents a renewed chapter in Jamaica-U.S. relations, and both nations have signaled strong intent to build on a shared legacy of friendship, cooperation, and regional leadership.
Jamaica Live will continue to monitor developments as Ambassador Anderson assumes his diplomatic mission at this crucial time in regional and global affairs.
📰 Reporting by Jamaica Live News Team
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