Jamaica's youngest ambassador-at-large, the Honourable Usain Bolt, yesterday received his instrument of appointment as ambassador and diplomatic passport during a brief presentation ceremony at Jamaica House.

In making the presentations, Prime Minister Bruce Golding said, "We have a great athlete, a great icon, someone who can help to strengthen Jamaica's image right across the globe."

Golding said that in asking Bolt to accept the assignment of ambassador-at-large for Jamaica, the Government should not be seen as rewarding him but as asking him to take on the responsibility of helping to promote Jamaica because he commands so much attention.

"We want the world never to forget for one moment that he is Jamaican to the bone and he has so strengthened our image and is such a powerful symbol of what Jamaicans can become. We are asking him in his travels, whatever he does and wherever he goes, that he be Jamaica's ambassador and continue to bring glory to the country and make sure that everyone understands that respect is due," Golding said in the view of the new ambassador.

Ambassador Usain Bolt said he was honoured and noted that he would live up to the high expectations.

"This is a big thing for me and I will try to do my best and will live up to your expectations," he told Golding and Jamaica.