Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, praised the strong ties between India and Jamaica, emphasizing their shared history and the close friendship between the two nations. Modi expressed confidence that Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ visit to India would further energize bilateral relations.
In a joint press statement alongside PM Holness, Modi stated, “I welcome Prime Minister Holness and his delegation. He has been a long-standing friend of India, and I am confident that his visit will bring new energy to our relations, not just bilaterally but also with the entire Caribbean region.”
Modi highlighted India’s role as a “reliable and committed development partner” in Jamaica’s growth, underscoring the increasing trade and investment between the two nations. He noted the importance of the “Four Cs” – Culture, Cricket, Commonwealth, and CARICOM (Caribbean Community) – as pillars of the relationship. Through initiatives like ITEC and ICCR scholarships, India has contributed to skill development and capacity building in Jamaica.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Holness met with PM Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. This marks the first official visit of a Jamaican Prime Minister to India, with Holness visiting from September 30 to October 3. Prior to their meeting, Holness paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.
Holness’ visit is seen as a significant milestone in strengthening India-Jamaica relations, building on previous meetings between the two leaders during various multilateral events.