Jamaica PM Ends “Successful” Working Visit To Japan

KINGSTON, Jamaica CMC – Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller is due home this weekend after a “successful” three day working visit to Japan.

A government statement said that Prime Minister Miller signed a joint declaration with her Japanese counterpart, Shinzo Abe, for strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

“Our collaboration has translated into a number of projects and programs in the areas of trade, economic and technical co-operation. These programs have complemented our national development goals, bringing significant benefits to the peoples of Jamaica and Japan,” Mrs. Simpson Miller said.

According to the agreement, the countries will seek to co-operate in areas such as energy conservation and renewable energy and mineral resources development.

They also “recognized the importance of promoting dialogue for improving business environments and expanding investment opportunities in a diverse range of sectors”. The agreement also covers the strengthening of co-operation on Caribbean and global issues.

The statement said that Prime Minister Abe acknowledged the important relationship between the two countries.

“Jamaica is an important partner with which we have enjoyed an amicable and co-operative relationship over the years as we both are maritime states sharing the fundamental values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law,” he said.

He also noted that his country was looking to promote further co-operation with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the development of bilateral relationships with Jamaica through politics, the economy, human exchange, sports and tourism.

Prime Minister Simpson Miller led a four member delegation to Japan that included the Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining, Phillip Paulwell.