India signs 3 MoUs with Jamaica, expands strategic cooperation

India and Jamaica have signed three key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) spanning health cooperation, renewable energy, and broadcasting during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s official visit to the Caribbean nation from May 2 to 4, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties.The visit — the first-ever by an Indian foreign minister to Jamaica — saw Jaishankar call on Prime Minister Andrew Holness and hold delegation-level talks with Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith. The discussions reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations and identified new areas of collaboration.

Digital, power, and public health: India and Jamaica sign 3 MoUs during historic visit of EAM Jaishankar to fast-track bilateral cooperation

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According to the Ministry of External Affairs, both sides assessed progress in existing partnerships across digital transformation, culture, sports, and digital payments, underlining the need for tangible outcomes. They also acknowledged the successful completion of the “Improving Rural Livelihoods” project in Kitson Town, implemented under the India–UN Development Partnership Fund with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization, benefiting over 200 Jamaicans.
India reaffirmed its support for Jamaica’s recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa. As part of humanitarian assistance, Jaishankar handed over 10 BHISHM emergency medical units and announced the supply of 30 dialysis units, along with 40 motorised fishing boats, 200 GPS devices, and related equipment. The two sides also explored setting up an Artisan Empowerment Hub in Jamaica to boost livelihoods under the India–CARICOM development partnership framework.The discussions further focused on expanding cooperation in priority sectors such as healthcare, infrastructure, digitalisation, agriculture, education, tourism, and capacity building. India committed to enhancing training opportunities under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, particularly in defence, increasing the number of slots from six to 34. Capacity-building initiatives through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations scholarships and digital platforms like E-Vidyabharati and iGOT Karmayogi were also highlighted.
Both nations agreed to strengthen trade, investment, and business linkages, including facilitating the mobility of skilled professionals. They also reaffirmed close coordination in multilateral forums on issues concerning the Global South, climate justice, climate finance, and the concerns of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).India appreciated Jamaica’s support for its candidature for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council for 2028–29. The two sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and reiterated the need for early finalisation of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).
During the visit, Jaishankar paid homage at the Indian Arrival Memorial in Old Harbour and, along with Holness, unveiled a plaque for an India-gifted electronic scoreboard at Sabina Park. He also announced a contribution of JMD 2 million towards the celebration of India Arrival Day on May 10, 2026.The minister also engaged with business leaders, members of the Indian diaspora, and participated in an interactive session at the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus.Jaishankar’s visit to Jamaica is part of a broader three-nation tour, including Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago, aimed at deepening India’s engagement with the Caribbean region. He arrived in Suriname on Wednesday for a maiden visit and is scheduled to hold talks with his counterpart Melvin Bouva.

(Business Correspondent)