Ambassador Pleased With Increase in Russian Tourists to Jamaica

Russian Ambassador to Jamaica, His Excellency, Vladimir Polenov, has lauded the six-fold increase in tourist arrivals from his country to the island, noting that there is a growing interest in Jamaica.

Mr. Polenov says Jamaica continues to attract many tourists, friends, and fans. “Among them is a growing number of Russians who truly love your country, its remarkable culture, outstanding achievements in the field of sports, friendly and hospitable people, unique landscapes, (and) its variety,” he remarked.

Ambassador Polenov stated that Russia’s growing interest in Jamaica is demonstrated by the visit of 12,000 nationals to the island last year. He emphasised that this was 600 per cent more than in 2012.

“We are confident that the popularity of Jamaica, as a unique tourist destination among our people, will continue to grow, and look forward to the reopening of the programmes of direct flights from Moscow to Montego Bay at the beginning of the autumn/winter season,” he stated.

The Ambassador was speaking at the investiture ceremony for former Government Minister, Attorney-at- Law, and businessman, Francis Tulloch, as Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in Montego Bay. The ceremony was held at the Round Hill Hotel, Hopewell, Hanover, on May 27.

The Ambassador described as a “good and long sighted decision”, the Russian language training courses being offered by the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment, for personnel in the tourism industry.

He said further strengthening of friendly relations between Jamaica and Russia is anticipated in a variety of mutually beneficial and promising areas.  Both countries will celebrate 40 years of friendly relations in 2015.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Polenov observed that Mr. Tulloch’s appointment as Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in Montego Bay is “a tangible and significant sign of the willingness and readiness of our country to actively develop bilateral ties with Jamaica”.

In his response, Mr. Tulloch said he accepts the appointment with great humility.

He said that he anticipates working with the Russian Embassy and all stakeholders, to ensure that the friendship between both countries grows.