British Prime Minister Tony Blair (left) bids farewell to his Jamaican counterpart, P.J. Patterson, after a meeting at No. 10 Downing Street in London on June 10, 2005. - CONTRIBUTED
BRITISH PRIME Minister Tony Blair has added his sentiments to the list of tributes sent to former Prime Minister Patterson.
In a statement sent to the Office of the Prime Minister earlier this week, Prime Minister Blair expressed his appreciation for the dedication and statesmanship with which Mr. Patterson has served Jamaica.
Noting that both he and Mr. Patterson share a common understanding on a wide range of issues, he added that, during the former Prime Minister's tenure, relations between Jamaica and the United Kingdom have flourished and remain in good shape as he leaves office.
"I have valued our discussions in many different fora over the years - in the Commonwealth, at the United Nations and in London," Mr. Blair stated.
LOOKS FORWARD TO CONTINUED WARM RELATIONSHIP
Prime Minister Blair also said he looks forward to the continuation of a warm relationship with the new Prime Minister of Jamaica on several issues, including the commitment of both countries in the fight against international crime and drug trafficking.
Additionally, Mr. Blair noted that Mr. Patterson's commitment to regional cooperation and the role he played in making the CARICOM Single Market a reality, after a long process of negotiation and preparation.
The tributes to the former Prime Minister did not stop there though, as Don McKinnon, Secretary General of the Commonwealth, congratulated Mr. Patterson on his long and distinguished run as Prime Minister.
"You have been a strong supporter of the Commonwealth and an invaluable source of guidance to me personally during my time as Secretary General," he said. Mr. McKinnon added that he hoped that Mr. Patterson would extend his services to the commonwealth despite his resignation.
