Prime Minister Andrew Holness and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations during a productive telephone conversation on Saturday, as both sides described it.
According to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), the leaders discussed continued cooperation between Jamaica and the United States, including Washington’s support following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, as well as broader regional economic and security priorities.
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Secretary Rubio commended the Jamaican Government’s management of disaster relief operations, praising the swift restoration of critical services across communities impacted by the Category Five storm. Prime Minister Holness expressed gratitude to the US Government and people for their ongoing assistance throughout the relief and early recovery phase.
The conversation also addressed the scale of Jamaica’s reconstruction needs. Both leaders acknowledged the complexity of rebuilding efforts and the importance of investing in stronger, more resilient infrastructure to support long-term economic growth. Rubio reaffirmed the United States’ readiness to assist Jamaica’s reconstruction through continued partnership, including engagement from the private sector.
Holness welcomed the recent decision by the US Department of State to upgrade Jamaica’s travel advisory from Level Three to Level Two. He noted that the move reflects sustained improvements in public safety and security and underscored its significance for tourism, foreign investment, and people-to-people exchanges between both countries.
Crime reduction efforts were also highlighted, with Holness outlining Jamaica’s comprehensive security strategy following a notable decline in criminal activity in 2025. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to tackling drug and firearms trafficking, transnational organized crime, and emerging regional security threats.
Jamaica’s participation in the multinational Gang Suppression Force in Haiti was discussed, with Holness emphasizing the country’s role as a dependable regional partner. He also stressed the importance of continued collaboration with the United States on security, energy, economic development, and immigration matters.
The leaders agreed to maintain close engagement as both nations work to deepen their longstanding partnership, anchored in shared democratic values and a mutual commitment to regional stability and prosperity.
