Cricket Diplomacy Strengthens Ties Between India and Jamaica

Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Andrew Holness underscored cricket's role in boosting India-Jamaica relations. They discussed mutual cooperation in sports and creative industries, celebrating historical ties and shared values. The visit aims to deepen cultural and economic bonds between the two nations.

Prime Ministers Narendra Modi of India and Andrew Holness of Jamaica highlighted the pivotal role of 'cricket diplomacy' between their countries on Tuesday, stressing how the sport has significantly strengthened people-to-people connections. Jamaican PM Holness praised India's cricket prowess and Jamaica's track and field excellence, citing vast opportunities for mutual exchange and cooperation.

In a press conference, PM Holness assured ongoing Jamaican support and participation in joint initiatives like the International Solar Alliance. He observed that the combined strengths in cricket and athletics create exciting prospects for collaboration. Holness also congratulated India on its 2024 T20 World Cup win and recent chess achievements.

Holness mentioned that the leaders also discussed creative industries, appreciating Bollywood's success. Jamaica's recent establishment of a Film Fund aims to support local filmmakers and foster cooperation with India's film industry. PM Modi emphasized the shared history and democratic values underpinning India-Jamaica relations, expressing confidence that ties would now progress rapidly.

Modi elaborated on the strong connections forged through sports, particularly cricket, noting Indian fans' high regard for Jamaican cricketers like Courtney Walsh and Chris Gayle. He expressed optimism that recent discussions would accelerate bilateral relations. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized cricket's central role in these talks, acknowledging India's contributions to Jamaica's cricket infrastructure.

The Jamaican PM made his first official visit to India, receiving a warm welcome from Union Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary. The visit included a bilateral meeting, delegation-level talks, and a trip to Sarnath. Both nations, bound by shared history and democratic values, expect to deepen their economic and cultural ties through this visit.

(With inputs from agencies.)