The Finland ambassador to Jamaica, Mr Ripatti, arrived on the island for a short visit. The ambassador's visit was a demonstration of intent to strengthen the bond between Jamaica and Finland.

Published Thursday, November 5, 1987

Finnish Envoy Welcomed

FINLAND’S first Ambassador to Jamaica is Mr Pertti Justus Ripatti. He called on Governor General Sir Florizel Glasspole to present his credentials, yesterday 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 co-operation in various fields.” he said.

The governor general told Mr 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 geopolitical 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 was accredited to Trinidad and Tobago, in addition to his new post in Jamaica.

Pertti will soon serve as ambassador to Barbados.

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