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Long live the EU!

Published:Sunday | May 18, 2014 | 12:00 AM
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EU Ambassador Paola Amadei and Jamaica's Finance Minister Peter Phillips make a toast in celebration of the EU's National Day. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer
Our camera snapped Shri Pratap Singh and Ruth O'Brien
From left: South African High Commissioner Mathu Joyini, Director of Public Prosecutions Paula Llewellyn, and Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner Iva Gloudon in very animated conversation.
Brian Pengelley (left) and Barry O'Brien in conversation. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer
Greta Bogues (right) shares a laugh with Monica Ladd (left), Richard Byles, and his wife, Jacinth.
Paola Amadei's husband, Jorge Garzon (centre), shares the company and a hearty laugh with Alex Crowther (left) and Ambassador of the Dominican Republic José Tomás Ares.
Hosts Paola Amadei (right), head of the European Delegation to Jamaica, and her husband, Jorge Garzon (left), pulled out all the stops in entertaining their guests Catherine Kennedy (second left) and Imani Duncan-Price. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer
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Krysta Anderson, Lifestyle Reporter

Not even the showers could keep specially invited guests from turning up at the residence of Paola Amadei, head of the Delegation of the European Commission to Jamaica, to commemorate and celebrate Europe's National Day.

On Thursday, May 8, they arrived elegantly dressed in accord with the luxurious red carpet which led to the lawns of Strathmore Great House, illuminated by the Union's signature blue lights. As guests entered the spacious deluxe tents, they were greeted by the Jamaica and EU flags.

After both national anthems were played, Ambassador Amadei thanked everyone for their support. This was the third year she hosted the event in recognition of the struggles of two world wars to declare independence, as well as highlighting the great cultural exchange and the close bond between Jamaica and the European Union, which has withstood the test of time. She spoke of increased trading and cooperation and encouraged continuous peace and prosperity between Europe and our green shores.

SALUTING THE UNION

Finance Minister Dr Peter Phillips also took to the stage, paying tribute to the EU, and specifically saluting the vision of the great Robert Schuman in helping to form what is today the European Union. Promoting sustainable development and long-standing partnership between the celebrated countries, he closed things off with a toast to the best of both worlds.

After his speech, a mingling frenzy ensued, putting an instant halt to the formal aspect of the evening.

Alpha All Star Band brought some buzz to the event, and as the evening progressed, glasses of sparkling champagne and fine wine became the new accessory. To top things off, guests were treated to a delicious fare of local and international dishes.

While many made themselves comfortable by grabbing one of the available seats, others chose to follow the beat of the band, generating some warmth and displacing the cold air engulfing the tent.

It was a great occasion for friends to spend time together in honour of a special day.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com

Photos by Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer