In an article published in The Jamaican Gleaner on Sunday, Jaishankar called for sustained collaboration between the two nations to build a deeper and more resilient partnership that benefits their citizens and contributes to a more equitable global order. His remarks coincided with his first official visit to Jamaica, aimed at enhancing bilateral relations.
Arriving in Kingston on Saturday evening, Jaishankar emphasized the enduring role of the Indian diaspora, whose presence in Jamaica spans over 180 years. He described this community as a “living bridge” that gives bilateral ties a distinctive character. The minister noted that for many Indians, Jamaica evokes associations with cricket legends such as Michael Holding and Chris Gayle, music icons Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff, athletes Usain Bolt and Elaine Thompson-Herah, and cultural figure Miss Lou. He said these cultural connections reflect a deeper bond rooted in shared membership of the Global South and the Commonwealth.
Tracing the historical origins of the relationship, Jaishankar highlighted the arrival of Indian indentured workers in the 19th and early 20th centuries. He pointed to the landing of the first Indians aboard the ship Blundell Hunter at Old Harbour Bay in 1845 as the beginning of this connection. Today, approximately 70,000 people of Indian origin reside in Jamaica, continuing to shape the country’s social and economic landscape.
He noted that diplomatic relations established in 1962 formalized ties that had already been built by people-to-people connections. During his visit, Jaishankar traveled to Old Harbour, the historic landing site, where he interacted with members of the Indian diaspora. He observed how they have preserved their culture, traditions, and identity over generations.
The minister also highlighted the influence of Indian culture in Jamaica, citing the popularity of cuisine such as curry and roti, and the celebration of festivals including Diwali, Phagwa, and Hosay. He stated that these cultural exchanges continue to strengthen societal links between the two nations.
On the economic front, Jaishankar reported that bilateral trade has surpassed 100 million United States dollars in recent years. He emphasized that India’s strengths in pharmaceuticals, apparel, engineering goods, automobile components, and digital technologies complement Jamaica’s ambitions to become a logistics and connectivity hub in the Caribbean region.
He further noted Jamaica’s participation in India-led global initiatives, including the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and the International Solar Alliance, as key pillars of cooperation. Recalling India’s support during Hurricane Melissa last year, Jaishankar detailed the dispatch of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief materials, including trauma treatment units, hygiene kits, food supplies, solar lamps, medical equipment, power generators, and shelter support.
Addressing climate concerns, he reiterated India’s strong support for Small Island Developing States, particularly in advocating climate action and justice through practical collaboration. He also emphasized the need to deepen academic partnerships through student exchanges and to enhance people-to-people ties via tourism and sports.
Jaishankar’s visit to Jamaica marks the first leg of a nine-day tour that also includes Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago, reflecting India’s strategic push to strengthen engagement with Caribbean nations. The visit underscores the enduring historical connections and evolving cooperation that continue to shape India–Jamaica relations in a changing global landscape
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