England and Manchester City football star Raheem Sterling has become the tourism ambassador in Europe for Jamaica.
His appointment was announced by the country’s tourism minister Edmund Bartlett (pictured right with the footballer).
The partnership is one of many developments to mark the country’s 60th anniversary of independence.
Sterling was born and raised in the Maverley district of Kingston, Jamaica, before moving to London at the age of five.
As an ambassador, he will be the face of Jamaica in Europe and represent the destination at various engagements.
He said: “I’m so honoured to be Jamaica Tourist Board’s tourism ambassador in Europe during such an important and exciting year for the country. I’m proud to have been born in Jamaica and I can’t wait to spread the word about what a wonderful place it is.”
Bartlett added: “We are thrilled to announce this new partnership with Raheem Sterling. He is an exceptionally gifted young man who represents the very best of Jamaica.”
Donovan White, tourism director at the Jamaica Tourist Board, commented: “Having Raheem as our tourism ambassador in Europe will help us showcase our country and really get our 60th anniversary celebrations started in style. We recognise his global reach and know that he will do very well as our ambassador.”
The footballer met the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on Tuesday, after they arrived in Jamaica as part of their tour of the Caribbean.
Prince William, who is president of the Football Association, played football with young footballers and Sterling.