Jamaican Prime Minister’s Visit to India | 08 Oct 2024

Source: PIB 

Why in News?

Recently, the Prime Minister of Jamaica visited India to solidify bilateral ties in a range of key areas including trade and investment. It will be the first-ever bilateral visit of the Prime Minister of Jamaica to India. 

What are the Key Outcomes of the Visit? 

• Meeting the President of India:  
  • Both leaders agreed on the need to further strengthen partnerships across various levels, including parliamentary, academic, and cultural exchanges, as well as collaboration in international forums. 
  • The President appreciated Jamaica's participation in all three editions of the Voice of the Global South Summits and emphasised the shared commitment of both nations to reform multilateral institutions, including the UN Security Council, through groupings like the L-69. 
• Several Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) were Signed: 
  • The governments of India and Jamaica collaborate to share successful digital public infrastructure, the Cultural Exchange Programme, and cooperation in sports. 
  • Between NPCI International Payments Limited and Egov Jamaica Limited. 

The Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS)

• It is a new and unique India-led initiative that envisages bringing together countries of the Global South and sharing their perspectives and priorities on a common platform across a whole range of issues.  
• It is a reflection of India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or "One Earth, One Family, One Future”, and the Prime Minister’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas. 

How are the Relations between India and Jamaica? 

• India was among the first nations to recognize Jamaica after its independence, establishing diplomatic relations in 1962, and setting up a resident mission in Kingston in 1976 following PM Indira Gandhi's visit. 
• Jamaica established its Resident Mission in India in 2020. 
• India and Jamaica have historically maintained cordial and friendly relations, built on shared ties of history, parliamentary democracy, Commonwealth membership, and a mutual love for cricket. 
• Jamaica is home to a 70,000-strong Indian diaspora, one of the girmitiya countries, serving as a vital connection between the two nations. The year 2022 marks 177 years of the Indian community's presence in Jamaica. 
  • The Girmitiya countries are countries where Indian indentured labourers settled, such as Fiji, Guyana, Mauritius, South Africa, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and Reunion Island. 
• Both countries are members of international organizations like the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G-77.  
  • As developing nations, India and Jamaica share similar goals, such as economic growth, equity, poverty eradication, and improving citizens' quality of life.