During a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized the strengthening ties between their nations. This meeting, marking the first bilateral visit of a Jamaican Prime Minister to India, underscores the growing importance of their relationship.
PM Holness’s official visit to India, from September 30th to October 3rd, provided a platform for discussing crucial regional and global issues. Both leaders agreed that all disputes should be resolved through dialogue, underscoring their commitment to peace and stability. They further emphasized their dedication to working together to ensure global peace and security.
In a joint press conference following the meeting, PM Modi highlighted several key outcomes. He announced the renaming of the road in front of the Jamaica High Commission in Delhi as ‘Jamaica Marg’, symbolizing the growing friendship between the two nations. He also acknowledged the shared challenges of organized crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism, emphasizing their commitment to combating these threats collaboratively.
PM Modi also expressed gratitude for the contribution of the Indian diaspora in Jamaica. He noted that the nearly 70,000 people of Indian origin who call Jamaica home are a testament to the strong cultural ties between the two countries.
In terms of economic cooperation, PM Modi expressed India’s willingness to share its expertise in various sectors, including public infrastructure, small industries, biofuels, innovation, health, education, and agriculture. He also mentioned India’s commitment to supporting the training and capacity building of the Jamaican army.
Acknowledging the shared passion for cricket, PM Modi emphasized the role sports plays in strengthening relations between the two nations. He also expressed India’s eagerness to collaborate in the field of sports, further deepening their ties.
Finally, both leaders agreed on the need for reforms within global institutions, including the United Nations Security Council. They committed to working together to modernize these institutions, ensuring their relevance in the contemporary world.
The meeting between Prime Ministers Modi and Holness signifies the growing importance of the India-Jamaica relationship. The shared commitment to tackling global challenges, fostering economic cooperation, and strengthening cultural ties sets the stage for a promising future for both nations.
