In a testament to the enduring bond between Jamaica and Japan, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Alando Terrelonge, expressed gratitude for the friendship between the two nations.
Speaking at a Shamisen and Japanese folk music concert held to commemorate significant diplomatic milestones, Terrelonge emphasized the mutual respect and appreciation for each other’s culture that defines this relationship.
Cultural connections strengthen bonds
Terrelonge highlighted the vibrant exchange of cultural appreciation between Jamaica and Japan, citing the love of Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee and reggae music among the Japanese, and the widespread appetite for Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi, among Jamaicans.
These cultural exchanges, he noted, underscore the depth of the connection between the two nations.
Commemorating diplomatic milestones
The concert, held on Wednesday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade in Kingston, marked the 60th anniversary of Jamaica-Japan Diplomatic relations and the 30th anniversary of Japan-CARICOM Relations.
Terrelonge lauded the event as a symbolic representation of the enduring partnership between Jamaica and Japan, highlighting the significance both countries attach to their cultural and people-to-people connections.
Impact of exchange programs
Since the inception of the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme in 2000, Jamaica has welcomed over 400 nationals to serve as assistant language teachers and cultural ambassadors.
Terrelonge underscored the positive influence of these programs, emphasizing how Jamaican participants showcase their culture while contributing to cultural understanding and cooperation.
Japan’s support for Jamaica’s development
Expressing gratitude for Japan’s longstanding support, Terrelonge acknowledged the vital role played by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in Jamaica’s development efforts since 1989.
Through grants, technical assistance, concessionary loans, capacity building, and volunteers, Japan has significantly contributed to Jamaica’s progress and growth.
Sharing expertise through volunteerism
Terrelonge highlighted the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteer (JOCV) Programme, which has seen over 450 Japanese volunteers sharing their expertise with Jamaicans in crucial fields such as health, education, and information and communications technology (ICT).
This exchange of knowledge and skills further strengthens the bonds between the two nations.
Cultural extravaganza
The cultural event featured captivating performances by Shamisen player Hibiki Ichikawa and Japanese traditional music singer Akari Mochizuki.
Attendees were treated to the melodic sounds of the Shamisen, a three-stringed instrument often heard at Japanese festivals and in anime.
Additionally, they indulged in Japanese delicacies prepared by Jamaicans, including rice balls and taiyaki—a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red-bean paste.
By celebrating cultural exchanges and highlighting the shared values and appreciation between Jamaica and Japan, the concert served as a poignant reminder of the enduring friendship between these two nations.
