KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness today left the island for a three-day visit to the State of Israel. He is scheduled to return to Jamaica on January 15.

The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) said in a news release Tuesday that the working visit is a result of an invitation to Jamaica, which was issued several months ago. The OPM said the visit forms part of Prime Minister Holness’ ongoing commitment to seek opportunities for Jamaica through deepened bilateral relations with various countries.

In Israel, the prime minister is expected to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the two leaders are to discuss areas of potential cooperation on growth and economic development between both countries, such as security, agriculture, water resource management, and Diaspora bonds.

The OPM said meetings will also be held with key Israeli officials and members of the private sector.

Through these engagements, Jamaica will seek to identify and capitalise on opportunities for collaboration and expanded exposure to best practices, the OPM said. This aligns with the administration’s drive to foster economic growth and prosperity through pioneering and sustainable policies.  

Holness is accompanied by representatives from the National Water Commission, the National Water Resources Authority, the National Security Council as well as the Economic Growth Council and Ambassador Nigel Clarke.

During the Prime Minister’s absence, Horace Chang, minister without portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister, will be in charge of government.