What a splendid Friday evening (September 15) it was at the residence of His Excellency Juan Jose Gonzalez Mijares, Ambassador of Mexico to Jamaica.

His Cherry Gardens home drew an impressive crowd coming out to celebrate the 213th anniversary of Mexican independence with the ambassador.

Splendid food, lovely music, gracious people. Shout out goes to the saxophonist Luis Rogelio Ortiz and singer Itzel Escobar. The Chill ’n Go special musical performance was on point.

Speaking at the event to mark a significant anniversary, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Ed Bartlett said:” September 16,1810 marked a pivotal moment in the history of Mexico, when Father Hidalgo proclaimed the “Grito de Dolores” which charted the path of this great nation towards freedom from colonial rule after 300 years. Although independence was eventually achieved over a decade later, to this day, the “ Grito” signals hope, freedom and solidarity, values and ideals for which Mexicans all over the globe continue to fight and hold dear.

“Over the last two centuries, Mexico can be justly proud of the strides it has made, from a fledgling State to an economic powerhouse ranked 14th among the world’s largest economies. With a population of over 130 million, Mexico also has abundant natural resources, a rich cultural heritage and is an important player of high standing on the world stage.

“Mexico is certainly among our closest neighbours in Latin America, with which we have forged a mutually beneficial partnership for nearly six decades, since the formalisation of diplomatic relations in 1966. It also gives me a particular personal pleasure to note the high level of Mexican investment in Jamaica’s tourism product, with Mexican ownership of the Karisma Hotels and the Moon Palace and more recently the Secret Hotels. I am happy to recall that nearly ten years ago, in 2014, Jamaica became the first location for the luxury Palace resorts, outside of Mexico, with Moon Palace Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios.

“It must also be noted that Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico S.A.B. de C.V. (GAP) owns the concessions to both the Norman Manley International Airport as well as the Sangster International Airport, the major gateways into the island.”

Our Today was there at the reception to commemorate the 213th anniversary of the independence of Mexico and brings you these photos.

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