TOKYO (Kyodo) — Japan said Thursday it will provide Jamaica with patrol and rescue boats to help the Caribbean nation strengthen maritime security and disaster response capabilities.
The announcement came as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his Jamaican counterpart Andrew Holness agreed on the importance of “free and open” maritime order during their meeting in Tokyo.
“Japan and Jamaica are both maritime nations and important partners that share universal values,” Abe said during a joint press appearance at his office with Holness.
The provision of vessels will “significantly enhance Jamaica’s maritime security and disaster response capabilities,” Holness said as he expressed appreciation for Japan’s decision.
Japan has been extending support to Jamaica and other Caribbean nations that are vulnerable to natural disasters. Holness said he talked with Abe about climate change that would spell “disaster” for their countries.
After the summit, Japan signed a convention with Jamaica to avoid double taxation. Holness is on a four-day visit to Japan through Saturday.
