Throne Speech: Jamaica secures billions in aid through bilateral engagements
KINGSTON,Jamaica- Bilateral engagements spearheaded by Jamaica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade yielded J$47 million for capacity building; J$60 million for citizen security; $230 million for security operations and equipment and $7.6 million for sports equipment for schools.
Agreements were also secured for a research vessel valued at $1.2 billion and sporting infrastructure development valued at J$15 billion.
This was revealed on Thursday by the Custos of Kingston, Steadman Fuller as he delivered the 2025 Throne Speech at Gordon House to mark the start of the new parliamentary year.
“Jamaica continues to thank international partners and the diaspora for their global solidarity in disaster response, as we mobilised over J$525 million to aid recovery efforts following Hurricane Beryl and Tropical Storm Rafael,” Fuller said.
He added that Jamaica reaffirmed its commitment to trade by completing its 5th Trade Policy Review at the World Trade Organization in 2024. Within CARICOM, Jamaica also secured Common External Tariff (CET) suspensions, safeguarding local industries while expanding seafood exports to Asia and Latin America.
“Jamaica continues to champion its interests globally, strengthening its role within international organisations,” said Fuller.
He noted that this year, Jamaica will be seeking re-election to the International Maritime Organization Council. In July 2025, Jamaica will also assume the Chairmanship of CARICOM’s Conference of Heads of Government, leading initiatives in peace and security, digital innovation, food security, and health, while advancing the Caribbean Single Market and Economy.
According to Fuller, Jamaica continues to strengthen its global presence, forging strategic partnerships that drive inclusive economic growth and improve the quality of life for all citizens.
“Through international cooperation, the country has secured critical investments in climate resilience, digital technology, energy and food security, health, education and disaster management,” he said.
