Jamaica: PM Holness, Governor-General Allen, Foreign Minister Johnson welcome Indian President Kovind

Jamaica: President of the Republic of India Ram Nath Kovind has landed on the land of Kingston, Jamaica. President Kovind was welcomed by Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness and Governor-General of Jamaica Patrick Allen.

President Kovind is the first President of the Republic of India to visit the Caribbean country, Jamaica.

“President Ram Nath Kovind arrived in Kingston on his state visit to Jamaica. He is the first President of India to visit Jamaica. Sir Patrick Allen, Governor-General of Jamaica and PM Andrew Holness received President Kovind at the airport,” informs the social media handle of the President of India.

The presidential visit has been scheduled to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Jamaica. The authorities of Jamaica welcomed the President with the guard of honour by the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF).

At the time of presenting the guard of honour, the national anthems of both countries (India and Jamaica) were played. President Kovind has been accompanied by the First Lady of India, Savita Kovind and other delegates from the native country.

Upon arrival, PM Holness optimised that the meeting would strengthen the diplomatic ties between both countries. Reportedly, both leaders will discuss bilateral cooperation to deepen the people-to-people relationship between India and Jamaica.

Prime Minister Holness expressed his pleasure and stated, “This visit by India’s President provides an opportunity for further discussions on bilateral cooperation and dialogue as we work closely to deepen relations and people-to-people ties between Jamaica and the Republic of India.”

Along with other officials of Jamaica, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, also welcomed the President of India.

She welcomed the Head of State of India. She stated, “So pleased to be home in time to join the Governor-General, PM @AndrewHolnessJM and other dignitaries to welcome for this historic 1st visit to Jamaica by a President of the Republic of India, Ram Nath Kovind. We look forward to strengthen the relationship between both the countries.”

So pleased to be home in time to join the Governor General, PM @AndrewHolnessJM and other dignitaries to welcome for this historic 1st visit to JA by a President of the Republic of India, H.E. Ram Nath Kovind.We look forward to strengthening the friendship btwn our countries 🇯🇲🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/GiDqbXjOVw

— Hon. Kamina J Smith (@kaminajsmith) May 15, 2022

As India has been focusing on the Caribbean Community – CARICOM, President Kovind will also visit St Vincent and the Grenadines.