On the occasion of the inauguration of Jamaica & China Chamber of Commerce, I wish to extend the warmest congratulations.

The friendly exchange between China and Jamaica dates back some 150 years, when the people from both countries established a profound friendship. The Chinese ancestors, since their arrival on this beautiful Caribbean island, had built friendship and lived in harmony with the Jamaican people, and made indispensable contributions to the economic and social development of Jamaica. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People's Republic of China and Jamaica in 1972, we have witnessed stronger bilateral relations and closer cooperation and exchanges in various fields like politics, economy and trade, culture and education, which embodied the special role of the Chinese community in Jamaica.

Although living far from ancestral home, both Jamaican Chinese and Chinese nationals in Jamaica follow with great interest the development and changes of their homeland. They are gratified at the well-to-do life of their Chinese compatriots while worry about their suffering from natural disasters. I was truly moved by the sincere expressions and generous actions of the Chinese community when a snow storm and a devastating earthquake hit China last year.

Today, I am pleased to see the inauguration of Jamaica & China Chamber of Commerce organized by the warm-hearted friends who are eager to promote the China-Jamaica friendship and serve in heartiness for the Chinese community. I believe, with the joint effort of the Chamber and other Chinese societies, the Chinese in Jamaica will carry forward the fine Chinese culture and traditional virtues, reveal the spirit of diligence, bravery, intelligence and self-improvement, and make more contributions to building a better Jamaica. I also sincerely hope that the Chinese community in Jamaica would act in unity, coordination, mutual support and respect and play a special and important role in enhancing the friendly cooperation and mutual benefit between the Chinese people and the Jamaican people.

Finally, I wish the Jamaica & China Chamber of Commerce enjoy greater success in its future endeavors.