India and Jamaica have signed three key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation in healthcare, renewable energy, and broadcasting during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s official visit to Jamaica from May 2 to 4.

The visit marks the first-ever visit by an Indian External Affairs Minister to the Caribbean nation and is being seen as a major step in strengthening India’s engagement with the Caribbean region.

Three Key MoUs Signed

During the visit, both countries signed agreements covering:

• Health cooperation
• Solarisation of the Hugh Lawson Shearer Building
• Broadcasting and media collaboration

The agreements are expected to strengthen institutional partnerships and support sustainable development initiatives in Jamaica.

High-Level Talks with Jamaican Leadership

Jaishankar held delegation-level talks with Kamina Johnson Smith and also met Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

The discussions reviewed ongoing cooperation and explored new opportunities across sectors including:

• Healthcare
• Infrastructure
• Agriculture
• Tourism
• Education
• Digital transformation
• Capacity building

Both sides emphasized the importance of ensuring tangible outcomes from existing agreements in areas such as culture, sports, and digital payments.

India Extends Development and Humanitarian Support

India reaffirmed its support for Jamaica’s recovery following Hurricane Melissa. During the visit, Jaishankar handed over:

• 10 BHISHM emergency medical units
• Announcement of 30 dialysis units
• 40 fishing boats with engines
• 200 GPS devices and related equipment

The two countries also discussed establishing an Artisan Empowerment Hub in Jamaica under the India–CARICOM partnership framework to support local livelihoods and skill development.

Focus on Education and Skill Development

India announced an increase in ITEC training slots for Jamaica from 6 to 34, particularly in defence training and technical education.

The discussions also covered:

• ICCR scholarships
• Digital learning platforms like E-Vidyabharati
• iGOT Karmyogi capacity-building initiatives
• Mobility opportunities for skilled professionals

Shared Vision on Global Issues

India and Jamaica reaffirmed cooperation on global platforms, especially on issues concerning:

• Climate justice and climate finance
• Interests of Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
• Global South cooperation
• Counter-terrorism initiatives

India also appreciated Jamaica’s support for its candidature for a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council for 2028–29.

Both countries strongly condemned terrorism in all forms and reiterated support for the early finalisation of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).

Cultural and Diaspora Engagement

During the visit, Jaishankar visited the Indian Arrival Memorial at Old Harbour and, along with Prime Minister Holness, unveiled a plaque for the India-gifted electronic scoreboard at Sabina Park.

He also announced a contribution of JMD 2 million for the celebration of India Arrival Day on May 10, 2026.

The minister interacted with the Indian diaspora, business leaders, and also participated in a public discussion at the University of the West Indies.

Strengthening India–Caribbean Ties

Jaishankar’s Jamaica visit is part of his three-nation Caribbean tour covering Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago from May 2–10. The visit reflects India’s growing strategic and developmental engagement with the Caribbean region and its commitment to strengthening partnerships across the Global South.