KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Juliet Holness, has concluded what the Parliament is describing as a successful official visit to Japan from February 3 to 8.

The historic visit, undertaken at the invitation of her Japanese counterpart, Mr Fukushiro Nukaga, marked the first time a Jamaican Speaker of the House has made an official visit to Japan. Holness was accompanied by Members of Parliament Ms Tamika Davis, Mr Dwight Sibblies, and Dr Morais Guy, as well as the Clerk to the Houses of Parliament, Ms Colleen Lowe.

The visit was of particular significance as it took place in the context of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Jamaica and Japan, and the 2nd Japan-CARICOM Friendship Year. During her time in Japan, Holness engaged in high-level discussions with Japanese parliamentary leaders, including Mr. Hiroshige Seko, Chair of the Japan-Caribbean Parliamentary Friendship League. She also met with ministers of government, senior officials, and business leaders to explore avenues for deeper cooperation in key areas such as trade, energy, disaster resilience, education, and cultural exchange.

The Speaker emphasised the importance of strengthening the parliamentary ties between Jamaica and Japan, noting that the visit provided a platform to enhance dialogue, foster mutual understanding, and explore opportunities for collaboration that would benefit both nations.

Reflecting on the visit, Holness stated: “Jamaica and Japan share a longstanding and fruitful relationship built on mutual respect and cooperation. This visit has reinforced our commitment to deepening engagement at the parliamentary, economic, and cultural levels. I am confident that the discussions held will open new avenues for collaboration, benefiting the people of both nations for years to come”.

Jamaica and Japan established diplomatic relations on March 16, 1964, and have since enjoyed strong bilateral cooperation across various sectors. This milestone 60th anniversary has been commemorated through a series of exchanges and initiatives aimed at further strengthening ties.