German Ambassador Volker Schlegel (second right) gets a fine send-offfrom colleagues (from left) Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Cedric Harper; Ambassador Douglas Saunders, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Barbara Harper; Dr. Barbara Munske and British High Commissioner Jeremy Cresswell. - Winston Sill/Freelance PhotographerDaviot Kelly, Staff Reporter

Members of the local diplomatic corps came out to say "Auf Wiedersehen" to German Ambassador Volker Schlegel on Wednesday.

British High Commissioner Jeremy Cresswell, fresh from hosting a swanky birthday celebration in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on June 14, was at it again. This time the affair was smaller and more cosy but nonetheless meaningful as the diplomats bid one of their adored members farewell. Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and High Commissioner for St. Kitts and Nevis Cedric Harper was co-host for this goodbye get-together.

Represented with dignity

Ambassador Schlegel represented his country with dignity during his posting which started in 2005. He will be returning to Germany to work in the private sector in Dusseldorf. He said that the moment he arrived here, he realised Jamaica's unutilised potential.

"It was a very intensive and fruitful experience and I thank all of my colleagues for their advice and hand of friendship. I will not say goodbye as I will keep in contact," he said.

High Commissioner Harper in his address said that goodbyes are unfortunately a part of life.

A great friend

"In the case of Volker, he has been a sounding board and great friend. Volker, we hope to see you again and we know success will continue to find you."

Ambassador Schlegel received more than the traditional silver plaque presented by the members of the corps. In addition to that, he was given a Document of Achievement which was signed by German President Horst Kohler and Foreign Minister Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Well done Ambassador!

He won't be the only Ambassador whose tour will be coming to a close soon but more on them in good time.

Guests included: Ambassador Maxine Roberts and sister Valerie; Cuban Ambassador Gisela Garcia and husband Jorge Crespo; Dominican Republic Ambassador Filomena Navarro; Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner Yvonne Gittens-Joseph; Ambassador Douglas Saunders; Colombian Ambassador Dr. Ventura Emilio Diaz-Mejia; and Indian High Commissioner Kailash Agrawal.