Prime Minister Modi and Jamaican PM Holness Celebrate Cricket Diplomacy and Strengthen Ties

New Delhi, India - Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness praised the role of 'cricket diplomacy' in enhancing the relationship between India and Jamaica. They highlighted how cricket has helped strengthen the bonds between the people of both countries.

During a press conference, PM Holness acknowledged India's cricketing prowess and Jamaica's excellence in track and field. He emphasized the opportunities for mutual exchange and cooperation in these areas. He also congratulated India on its victory in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup and its recent success in the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad.

PM Holness mentioned the potential for collaboration in creative industries, including movies. He noted that Jamaica has established a Film Fund to support local filmmakers and expressed interest in working with Bollywood.

Prime Minister Modi spoke about the strong people-to-people ties between India and Jamaica. He highlighted the admiration Indian fans have for Jamaican cricketers and expressed confidence that the relationship between the two countries would grow rapidly.

Later, the Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the discussions on cricket and the popularity of Jamaican cricketers in India. PM Holness thanked India for its contributions to the Sabina Park stadium in Jamaica.

PM Holness is on an official visit to India from September 30 to October 3, marking the first-ever bilateral visit of a Jamaican Prime Minister to India. He was warmly received by Union Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, at the airport.

The visit is expected to strengthen bilateral relations, enhance economic cooperation, and solidify the longstanding bonds between Jamaica and India.