New Delhi, May 5: Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s three-day official visit to Jamaica, held from May 2 to May 4, is seen as a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations. This marks the first visit of an Indian Foreign Minister to Jamaica for bilateral discussions.
During his visit, Jaishankar met with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness and held delegation-level talks with Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith. The discussions reviewed all aspects of the relationship between the two nations and identified new areas for cooperation.
Three memorandums of understanding (MOUs) were signed during the trip, focusing on health cooperation, solarization of the Hugh Lawson Shearer Building, and broadcasting. Ongoing collaborations in digital transformation, culture, sports, and digital payments were also assessed.
India praised the successful completion of the “Improving Rural Livelihoods” project, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization, which benefited over 200 individuals. Additionally, India assured continued support for Jamaica’s reconstruction following Hurricane Melissa.
India supplied ten Bhishma medical units, announced the provision of 30 dialysis units, and pledged to deliver 40 fishing boats, 200 GPS devices, and other equipment. Discussions also included the potential establishment of an “Artisan Empowerment Hub” under the India-CARICOM partnership.
Both nations agreed to enhance cooperation in health, infrastructure, agriculture, education, tourism, and digitalization. The number of ITEC training slots was increased from 6 to 34, which will boost collaborations on ICCR scholarships and platforms like e-Vidyabharati and I-GOT Karmayogi.
Agreement was also reached on global issues, including cooperation on Global South, climate justice, climate finance, and matters concerning Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Jamaica expressed support for India’s candidacy for the United Nations Security Council for the term 2028-29.
Jaishankar visited the Indian Arrival Memorial and inaugurated an electronic scoreboard gifted by India at Sabina Park alongside Prime Minister Holness. He also announced a contribution of 2 million Jamaican dollars for the “India Arrival Day” event scheduled for May 10, 2026.
Furthermore, he engaged with representatives from the Indian community and the business sector and participated in a public discussion at the University of the West Indies.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, this visit has proven to be a crucial milestone in redefining India-Jamaica relations and strengthening regional cooperation.
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