In a significant diplomatic milestone, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness is set to make the first-ever bilateral visit by a Jamaican Prime Minister to India from September 30 to October 3, 2024.
This visit starting today symbolizes an important moment not only in the evolving relationship between India and Jamaica but also for India’s growing engagement with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). With a number of MoUs expected to be signed, the visit promises to deepen bilateral cooperation and enhance economic and cultural ties.
First-Ever Jamaican Prime Ministerial Visit to India
Prime Minister Holness’ upcoming visit to India is historic. While the two leaders have met on several occasions during multilateral events, this marks the first dedicated bilateral visit. The meeting between Prime Minister Holness and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undoubtedly set the stage for stronger cooperation across various sectors.
Agenda of the Visit Announced by Ministry of External Affairs
During the visit, Prime Minister Holness will engage in delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Modi, and meet with President and Vice President. In addition, Holness is expected to meet prominent Indian leaders in trade and industry, further boosting economic ties. Several MoUs will be signed, aiming to strengthen the bonds between the two nations across a range of fields, from trade and technology to culture and education.
Historical and Cultural Ties
India and Jamaica share deep historical and cultural connections, largely shaped by their shared colonial past and common democratic values. Jamaica is home to a vibrant Indian diaspora of around 70,000 people, descendants of indentured laborers who migrated in the 19th century. This community has been integral in maintaining the cultural bridge between the two nations. Indian festivals like Holi, Diwali, and Navratri are celebrated with enthusiasm in Jamaica, highlighting the shared heritage.
Moreover, cricket—a sport cherished by both nations—has long served as a cultural touchpoint. The friendly sporting rivalry and mutual admiration for cricket legends from both countries have further enhanced people-to-people relations. These connections lay the foundation for a lasting partnership based on mutual respect and cultural understanding.
Strengthening CARICOM Ties
Beyond the bilateral relationship, Prime Minister Holness’ visit reflects India’s strategic outreach to the Caribbean region, particularly its engagement with CARICOM. Jamaica, as a key member of CARICOM, plays a pivotal role in fostering closer ties between India and the broader Caribbean. This visit is a continuation of the growing momentum that has been building since India’s efforts to engage more deeply with CARICOM nations, including through high-level meetings such as the Voice of Global South Summit.
Prime Minister Holness’ participation in multilateral engagements involving CARICOM and India, such as the BRICS and G-20 summits, has helped create avenues for economic, cultural, and technological cooperation between the regions. In 2019, India hosted the first meeting between Prime Minister Modi and CARICOM leaders, setting the stage for continued collaboration. Jamaica, in particular, stands to benefit from India’s expanding role as a development partner to the Global South.
Expanding Economic Cooperation
Jamaica and India have already seen a steady growth in trade, which rose from USD 28.28 million in 2011-12 to USD 116.73 million in 2023-24. With a 26% increase in trade over the past year, the economic ties between the two countries are rapidly expanding. During this visit, trade and investment are expected to be key areas of discussion, particularly in industries like information technology, business process outsourcing (BPO), and pharmaceuticals.
India’s development assistance has also been pivotal in Jamaica’s growth, with initiatives such as the rural development project in Kitson Town, supported through a grant from India’s Prime Minister. Additionally, Indian companies operating in Jamaica have contributed significantly to job creation, particularly in the BPO sector, where approximately 5,000 jobs have been generated for Jamaicans.
Moreover, India’s contribution of COVID-19 vaccines under the “Vaccine Maitri” initiative and floodlights for Jamaica’s famous Sabina Park cricket stadium further demonstrate the broadening scope of bilateral cooperation.
Diplomatic Milestones and Future Prospects
Diplomatic relations between India and Jamaica were established in 1962, soon after Jamaica gained independence. Since then, the two nations have enjoyed a cordial and friendly relationship, reinforced by shared concerns over issues such as climate change, food security, and disaster resilience. The establishment of resident diplomatic missions in both countries, with Jamaica’s mission in India becoming operational in 2020, has further institutionalized this relationship.
Prime Minister Holness’ visit is expected to propel diplomatic ties to new heights. With the two nations sharing similar priorities as developing countries in the Global South, particularly within multilateral forums like the United Nations and Commonwealth, this visit serves as a reaffirmation of their shared vision.
Looking ahead, the strengthening of ties between India and Jamaica is likely to have wider implications for India’s relationship with the Caribbean region. As Prime Minister Modi continues to build partnerships with CARICOM, Jamaica’s role as a leading voice within the region will only gain more prominence.
