External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has reiterated that development cooperation is a core pillar of India–Jamaica relations, as both countries aim to expand their partnership through new areas of collaboration. After holding detailed talks with Jamaica’s Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith in Kingston on Monday (local time), Jaishankar described the discussions as “comprehensive and very substantive.” He added that both sides reviewed the full scope of bilateral relations and explored multiple opportunities to further strengthen ties.

The two leaders also focused on identifying new areas of cooperation, with Jaishankar noting that several agreements have been signed. He stressed the importance of ensuring the “effective implementation” of recent MoUs covering sectors such as digital transformation, cultural exchange, sports, and digital payments, so that the benefits are visible on the ground.

Highlighting the importance of development partnership, Jaishankar welcomed the completion of the ‘Improving Rural Livelihoods’ project in Kingston Town. The initiative, supported by India with USD 1 million through the India–UN Development Partnership Fund, was completed in March and has benefited more than 200 people directly, while positively impacting thousands in the wider community.

Building on this progress, both sides discussed the possibility of setting up an artisan empowerment hub in Jamaica, in line with India’s broader engagement with CARICOM nations. Jaishankar also acknowledged India’s support for Jamaica’s recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa. He noted the delivery of one of the consignments of 10 BHISHM Cubes and confirmed that India is supplying 30 dialysis units to strengthen Jamaica’s healthcare system. Earlier assistance included over 20 tonnes of relief material and the deployment of a medical team to support local capacity building, reflecting India’s role as a dependable partner in disaster response.

The two countries discussed expanding cooperation in areas such as defence, healthcare, digital technology, agriculture, education, and infrastructure. In addition to bilateral issues, Jaishankar also met Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, where they exchanged views on regional and global developments. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to working closely in multilateral forums, with a shared focus on reforming global institutions and advancing the priorities of the Global South.