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During his inaugural visit to the Caribbean, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar described the historical relationship between India and Jamaica as a remarkable narrative of 'continuity and change.' In an article published in a local newspaper, he emphasized the deep connections that extend beyond mere diplomacy, rooted in a shared history and vibrant people-to-people interactions.

In the article, Jaishankar urged both nations to continue collaborating to forge a deeper and more resilient partnership that benefits their citizens and contributes to a more equitable world. His visit aims to enhance bilateral relations between India and Jamaica.

He noted that the Indian diaspora has had a connection with Jamaica for 180 years, stating, 'This relationship adds a unique dimension to our ties.'

Jaishankar highlighted that for many Indians, the mention of Jamaica evokes images of cricket legends like Michael Holding and Chris Gayle, the music of Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff, as well as the athletic prowess of Usain Bolt and Elaine Thompson-Herah, alongside the literary contributions of cultural icon Miss Lou.

He remarked that these connections reflect the profound ties between the two nations, which include their memberships in the 'Global South' and the Commonwealth.

Both India and Jamaica are pluralistic societies with political democracies and market-based economies. He articulated that their relationship is ultimately a story of continuity and transformation, rooted in a shared past, strengthened by current cooperation, and oriented towards future possibilities.

The narrative of India and Jamaica's relationship began with the arrival of Indian indentured laborers in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

He recounted that the journey commenced in 1845 when Indians first disembarked at 'Old Harbour Bay' aboard the ship 'Blundell Hunter.' Today, a community of approximately 70,000 people of Indian descent serves as a vibrant bridge between the two countries.

Jaishankar emphasized that the Indian-Jamaican community is an active and dynamic force that underpins and advances the relationship between the two nations. When diplomatic ties were established in 1962, it formalized what the people of both countries had already laid the groundwork for.

On Sunday, he visited Old Harbour, the site where Indians first arrived in Jamaica over 180 years ago. He remarked, 'Their contributions continue to shape Jamaica's social and economic life, connecting our societies in ways that diplomacy alone cannot achieve. This is why I decided to visit Old Harbour Bay and engage with members of the Indian diaspora.'

He shared on social media, 'It was a pleasure to visit the historic site of 'Old Harbour,' where Indians first arrived in Jamaica 180 years ago. I interacted with members of the Indian diaspora and observed how they have preserved their culture, traditions, and identity. Thanks to Ministers Olivia Atavia Babsy Grange and Edmund Bartlett for their gracious presence.'

The minister also noted how Indian influences have become embedded in Jamaican life, from curry and roti to the celebrations of Diwali, Phagwa, and Hosay. He mentioned that in recent years, bilateral trade has exceeded $100 million, highlighting India's potential in pharmaceuticals, apparel, engineering goods, automotive parts, and digital technologies, which align with Jamaica's aspirations to emerge as a logistics and contact center in the Caribbean.