Prime Minister Andrew Holness opened the Jamaica High Commission in New Delhi, India in a ceremonial official visit
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has announced the inauguration of the Jamaica High Commission in New Delhi, India. The Prime Minister is currently on an official visit to India, participating in a series of engagements including the inauguration of the High Commission, a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the opening of the Jamaica Marg (Jamaica Road), and the planting of a Champa (Plumeria Alba) sapling at Rajghat.
The Prime Minister was welcomed in a ceremonial official manner, with dignitaries and high-ranking officials present to greet him. The event was marked by a grand display of pomp and splendor, including a red carpet reception, an honor guard salute, and a formal introduction to various key figures from the government.
The Prime Minister appreciated the official welcome extended by India, which he described as indicative of the strong bond and friendship between the two countries.
Jamaica and India have enjoyed a strong bond of friendship over the years, and I am truly honoured to have the opportunity to further strengthen that relationship. It is a privilege to represent Jamaica on the global stage, and I believe this visit will open doors for both our nations, deepening our ties and paving the way for greater collaboration and shared growth, he said.
My visit to India and bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi mark a historic moment for Jamaica, ushering in a new era of diplomatic relations and enhanced bilateral cooperation between our nations, he wrote on X.
Widely recognized, esteemed, and cherished in India for his cricketing prowess, Jamaican Chris Gayle is also engaging in activities alongside the Prime Minister.
In one of many tweets on X, Andrew Holness lauded the relationship between the two countries, writing, “Today, we had the honour of unveiling the renamed Jamaica Marg Road in India and officially opening the Jamaican High Commission. We are grateful for these accomplishments, which signal the importance of the relationship between India and Jamaica. The High Commission features artistic displays of iconic Jamaican personalities, places, landscapes, food, and culture. In Indian tradition, the lighting of the Diya symbolizes positivity and prosperity. Thank you to our High Commissioner and his team for their hard work, and thanks to the members of the diplomatic corps who supported today’s opening. Our High Commission is now officially open!”
Prime Minister Andrew Holness went on to say that “It is an incredible honour to be in New Delhi today for the official opening of Jamaica Marg (Jamaica Road), a historic occasion that stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between Jamaica and India. I extend my deepest gratitude to the Government of India, particularly the Ministry of External Affairs and the Municipal Council of New Delhi, for this significant and symbolic gesture. This moment is made even more significant as we reflect on the recent naming of a road in Kingston in honour of Dr. Ambedkar, one of India’s Constitutional Fathers, during the visit of former President Sri Ram Nath Kovind to Jamaica. As we celebrate this occasion, I look forward to deepening our bilateral ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation that will benefit both our peoples.”
Prime Minister also engaged in planting a tree in honour of his commitment to a greener planet.
The Official Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, India, Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X that Jamaica and India is committed to a greener planet: Embracing Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings PM Andrew Holness of Jamaica planted a Champa (Plumeria Alba) sapling at Rajghat today.
This occasion reflects Jamaica’s strong commitment to enhancing our presence in India and deepening the relationship between our two nations, he said. Prime Minister Holness, emphasised that while the current connectivity between our countries has served us well, there remains immense potential for expansion. Strengthening direct links, particularly in the tourism sector, will create new opportunities for economic growth, cultural exchange, and closer interactions between the people of Jamaica and India. I look forward to witnessing the continued benefits of this partnership and ensuring that the friendship between Jamaica and India continues to flourish in the years to come.