Finland's first Ambassador to Jamaica, Pertti Justus Ripatti, expressed his country's desire to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties with Jamaica during a visit to present his credentials to Governor General Sir Florizel Glasspole on November 4, 1987. Ambassador Ripatti emphasised the potential for enhanced cooperation between the two nations across various sectors. In response, the governor general welcomed the opportunity for closer relations, highlighting the significance of the occasion as Jamaica celebrated its 25th anniversary of independence and the centenary of Marcus Garvey's birth.

Published Thursday, November 5, 1987 

Finnish envoy welcomed

Finland's first Ambassador to Jamaica is Pertti Justus Ripatti. He called on Governor General Sir Florizel Glasspole, to present his credentials on November 4, 1987 at King's House.

Ripatti told the governor general that it was the wish of the government of Finland to strengthen its political, economical and cultural ties with the Caribbean.

"It is our strong belief that Finland and Jamaica have good possibilities to further develop their cooperation in various fields," he said. 

The governor general told Ripatti that his visit had come at a special time in the history of the country, as Jamaica was celebrating the 25th anniversary of its political and economical independence. He also pointed out that it was the centenary of the birth of the country's first National Hero, the Rt. Excellent Marcus Garvey.

Sir Florizel said he was pleased to note that the foreign policy of Finland was founded on both historical and geo-political realities, and that the power of neutrality allowed the country to maintain friendly relations with all nations.

In 1980, a Finnish Embassy was opened in Caracas, Venezuela., from which the Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, in addition to his new post in Jamaica,  Pertti will soon service as ambassador to Barbados.

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