4 June 2024: Chinese Ambassador Outlines Plans to Strengthen Relations with Jamaica by TheRadamm.com Chinese Ambassador to Jamaica, Chen Daojiang, recently addressed the media during a press briefing to commemorate his second anniversary as the top local representative of the Republic of China. During this briefing, Ambassador Chen outlined several strategic plans aimed at fortifying the bilateral relations between China and Jamaica. Enhancing Community Connections One of the key initiatives highlighted by Ambassador Chen is the intention to deepen ties at the community level. To achieve this, the embassy will carefully select local entities in Jamaica that are friendly to China and actively engaged in improving the livelihoods of the Jamaican people. These selected entities will be honored with the prestigious title of “Family of China-Jamaica Friendship,” emphasizing the importance of grassroots connections in fostering strong diplomatic relations. Recognizing Contributions to Friendship In addition to strengthening community bonds, Ambassador Chen emphasized the significance of recognizing people or individuals who have made outstanding contributions to promoting friendship between China and Jamaica. To this end, the embassy will present the ‘Award of China-Jamaica Friendship’ to Jamaican citizens who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to enhancing bilateral ties. Streamlining Visa Processes Facilitating easier travel between the two countries is another priority for Ambassador Chen. China is set to simplify its visa application process for Jamaican nationals by granting temporary exemptions for qualified applicants from fingerprint collection. Furthermore, Jamaican travelers will benefit from a 25% discount on visa application fees. These measures aim to promote smoother travel experiences and encourage greater exchange between the two nations. Reviving Sports Cooperation Highlighting the importance of sports diplomacy, Ambassador Chen announced the resumption of the China-Jamaica sports coaching cooperation program. Despite disruptions caused by the pandemic, China remains committed to supporting Jamaica in the field of sports. As part of this program, 138 Jamaican athletes will travel to China to undergo a 60-day training program encompassing various disciplines such as swimming, gymnastics, badminton, women’s volleyball, and women’s basketball. Read More: Celebrating a Shared History This year marks the 170th anniversary of the arrival of the first Chinese immigrants in Jamaica. In recognition of this milestone, Ambassador Chen revealed plans for a grand celebration to be held from July to October. This event will serve as a good testament to the historical and cultural ties between China and Jamaica, further strengthening the bond between the two nations. Emphasizing Trade Relations Ambassador Chen underscored the thriving trade relationship between China and Jamaica, with China emerging as Jamaica’s second-largest trading partner. In 2023 alone, the trade volume between the two countries amounted to US$1.28 billion, highlighting the robust economic cooperation between China and Jamaica. Looking ahead, Ambassador Chen expressed optimism about the potential for further collaboration in investment and trade, as well as in sectors such as new energy, agriculture and fisheries, the digital economy, and the blue economy. Ambassador’s Vision for the Future: A Shared Path Forward In a signature article titled “Forging Ahead Into the Future, Jointly Ushering in a New Chapter of China-Jamaica Relations,” Ambassador Chen articulated his vision for the future of bilateral ties between China and Jamaica. He highlighted the forthcoming visit of H.E. WANG Yi, Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs, to Jamaica as a significant milestone in strengthening strategic cooperation between the two nations. Enriching Strategic Relations The upcoming visit of Minister WANG Yi represents the first high-level interaction that has been offline between China and Jamaica since the onset of the pandemic. Ambassador Chen expressed confidence that this visit would enrich the strategicness of China-Jamaica relations and promote pragmatic cooperation across various fields. Reinforcing Mutual Trust Ambassador Chen emphasized the importance of consolidating strategic mutual trust between China and Jamaica. He noted the close interactions between leaders of both countries and underscored their shared commitment to supporting each other’s interests and major concerns. Promoting People-to-People Exchanges In addition to strengthening governmental ties, Ambassador Chen highlighted the importance of fostering people-to-people exchanges between China and Jamaica. He emphasized the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations, citing the 170th anniversary of the first Chinese arrivals in Jamaica as a testament to their enduring bond. Building a Shared Future Ambassador Chen reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Jamaica’s development and emphasized the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind. He underscored the need for solidarity and cooperation in addressing global challenges, reaffirming China’s stance to stand with Jamaica on the path to mutual prosperity. Conclusion Ambassador Chen’s comprehensive vision for strengthening relations between China and Jamaica encompasses initiatives at both the governmental and grassroots levels. With a focus on enhancing community connections, recognizing contributions to friendship, facilitating smoother travel, and promoting cultural exchanges, Ambassador Chen aims to build a future of shared prosperity and mutual respect between the two nations.