Old Harbour [Jamaica], May 4 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday (local time) visited Old Harbour in Jamaica, the historic landing site of the first Indian arrivals to the Caribbean nation more than 180 years ago.

In a post on X, Jaishankar described the visit as an opportunity to connect with the Indian diaspora and acknowledge their enduring cultural legacy in Jamaica.'Glad to visit Old Harbour, the historic site where the first Indians arrived in Jamaica over 180 years ago,' he said.

https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2050990783289790947

He said he interacted with members of the Indian-origin community and praised their efforts to preserve their heritage across generations. 'Interacted with members of the Indian diaspora, witnessing how they have preserved their culture, traditions, and identity,' he added.

Jaishankar also thanked Jamaican ministers Olivia 'Babsy' Grange (Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport) and Edmund Bartlett (Minister of Tourism) for attending the event.

'Thank Ministers Olivia 'Babsy' Grange and Edmund Bartlett for their gracious presence,' he said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Jamaica on Saturday for his first official visit to the Caribbean nation, where he is expected to engage with the country's leadership, business community and members of the Indian diaspora.

'Pleased to arrive in Kingston for my first visit to Jamaica,' Jaishankar said on X. He added, 'Touched by the warm welcome extended by Foreign Minister Kamina J Smith.'

Jaishankar also said he looked forward to discussions during the two-day visit, stating, 'Look forward to engaging with the Jamaican leadership, business community, and members of the Indian diaspora over the next two days.'

Jaishankar has embarked on a three-nation tour to Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago as part of his official visit to the Caribbean nations.

According to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the visit is from May 2 to May 10.

MEA stated that the visit underscores India's close historical and cultural ties with the three countries, particularly due to the presence of Girmitiya communities.

During the visit, Jaishankar is scheduled to meet the leadership of the three nations and hold discussions with his counterparts on a wide range of issues, including bilateral relations as well as regional and global matters of mutual interest.

The ministry said the visit is aimed at sustaining the momentum of India's political engagement with Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago, while further strengthening longstanding and friendly ties. It also reflects a shared commitment to South-South cooperation and development.

'During the visit, EAM will meet with the leadership of the three countries and hold discussions with his counterparts covering the entire gamut of bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues of mutual interest,' the statement read.

'This visit of EAM is envisaged to continue the momentum of India's political engagements with Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad & Tobago and boost our longstanding and friendly relations with these countries, reflecting mutual commitment to South-South cooperation and development,' it added.

In addition to official meetings, the External Affairs Minister is expected to engage with prominent business leaders and interact with members of the Indian diaspora in the three countries. (ANI)