JAMAICA’s non-resident High Commissioner to Guyana, David Prendergast was yesterday accredited by President David Granger at the Ministry of the Presidency. Prendergast, who previously served as Jamaica’s High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, said Jamaica remains committed to strengthening bilateral and regional ties with Guyana, as the two countries have shared a special bond of friendship over the 46 years of their diplomatic relations.
He mentioned that the two countries have worked together at the bilateral, regional and multilateral levels, and have collaborated as members of CARICOM.
“I wish to reiterate Jamaica’s steadfast commitment to working with the Government of Guyana in deepening the ties that bind us. Jamaica stands ready to strengthen our bilateral and regional cooperation by continuing to explore issues of common interest that will redound to the benefit of all our peoples,” Prendergast said in his brief address after presenting his credentials to President Granger.
President Granger likewise assured the new Jamaican High Commissioner of Guyana’s full support during his tour of duty.
He said that both Guyana and Jamaica have recognised the value of regional integration in overcoming some of the disadvantages and limitations that small states face in the pursuit of national development.
“Our two countries, along with other like-minded states, actively pursue the vision of a unified and prosperous Caribbean region through the establishment of the Caribbean Community. Guyana remains steadfast in our belief that the path to greater prosperity of the Caribbean lies in closer integration within the region,” the President said.
President Granger said the common values to which Guyanese and Jamaicans adhere are those of democracy, respect for fundamental human rights, sustainable development, and the preservation of territorial integrity.
“These values have, over the years, served as a common bond between our nations,” he declared.
“Our unique Caribbean Community provides a valuable foundation for the long and lasting relationship which exists between our two countries at the bilateral level and the regional and international levels,” the President said.
Guyana and Jamaica first established diplomatic relations in 1969, three years after Guyana gained its Independence from Britain.
Prendergast’s accreditation ceremony was witnessed by Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge, and Director-General of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Audrey Waddle.

By Ariana Gordon