Prime Minister Holness and US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson Hold Historic Bilateral Talks

Prime Minister Andrew Holness today (February 7) hosted the United States Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson at the Office of the Prime Minister where they discussed critical issues of mutual interest to both countries.

Matters discussed included the strengthening of security cooperation in order to more effectively combat transnational organized crime; boosting the US Jamaica economic partnership, exploring opportunities to broaden US-CARICOM engagement, energy security, the economic vulnerability of middle income countries including; climatic events, de-risking and correspondent banking issues and the situation in Venezuela.

Prime Minister Holness said the talks reflect the long and productive relationship between the United Sates and Jamaica and signals the importance of the strong and vibrant partnership that exists between the two countries.

Prime Minister Holness stressed that the high level of support provided by the US, is greatly appreciated by the government as the United States has been consistent in their efforts to disrupt transnational crimes to effectively secure Jamaica’s maritime space.

The Prime Minister also expressed hope that the United States will strengthen its economic partnership and participation in the region.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Holness emphasized that he and Secretary Tillerson, agreed that positive engagement with the Government and the Opposition in Venezuela is essential. He expressed regret that attempts by the Organisation of American States (OAS) have not been met with success.

Prime Minister Holness stressed that the Government of Venezuela must act in the best interest of its people and that it should ensure that the presidential elections are free, fair and credible in the eyes of the Venezuelan people and the international community.

For his part, Secretary Tillerson thanked the Government of Jamaica for hosting the US delegation. He noted that Jamaica is the closest partner to the United States in this region and pledged continued support.