Ambassador: Jamaica-Dom Rep trade hits new high
Martinez prepares for departure as nations mark 60 years of relations
Published:Monday | December 9, 2024 | 12:10 AMJanet Silvera/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
The economic partnership between Jamaica and the Dominican Republic has reached unprecedented levels, with bilateral trade totalling US$134 million, Dominican Ambassador Angie Martinez said during a Diamond Gala reception last Friday.
Hosted at her official residence, the event marked 60 years of diplomatic relations and celebrated transformative achievements in trade and connectivity.
Martinez underscored the mutual benefits of the growing trade volume, describing it as a testament to the “win-win relationship” between the two nations.
“This growth has been reciprocal, creating balanced opportunities for both countries,” she said.
A significant catalyst for this growth has been the introduction of direct flights by Arajet Airlines between Kingston and Santo Domingo. Since the route’s inception in 2022, more than 75,000 passengers have travelled between the two cities, a dramatic increase from near-zero travellers in 2020. The airline has since expanded its offerings to include Punta Cana, a favourite destination for Jamaican travellers.
“This is the most transcendental achievement that we have had over the 60 years,” she told the large gathering that included emissaries from the various embassies, including Canada, the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Cuba, and India.
Martinez hailed this development as a game-changer, opening new markets and paving the way for increased collaboration.
“The establishment of these flights is one of the most transformative achievements in the six decades of relations between Jamaica and the Dominican Republic,” she noted.
Another milestone was the finalisation of an air-service agreement, which had been under negotiation for over 20 years. This agreement, Martinez said, would further enhance the flow of goods, services, and people between the two nations.
The ambassador also lauded the contributions of Jamaican officials, particularly Senator Aubyn Hill, minister of industry, investment, and commerce; Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, minister of foreign affairs and foreign trade; and Daryl Vaz, minister of science, energy, telecommunications, and transport.
According to her, with Vaz’s visit, they are well under way to fulfilling a number of commitments.
Both Johnson Smith and Hill, she said, have played pivotal roles in advancing trade and connectivity. Hill, for example, led three delegations to the Dominican Republic, one of which included representatives from more than 30 Jamaican companies, fostering dynamic exchanges.
Dominican Week in Jamaica, a flagship event during Martinez’s tenure, further deepened ties by showcasing the rich culture and economic opportunities of her nation.
Political consultation
In addition to trade and connectivity, Martinez highlighted the first-ever political consultation between the two countries. This historic dialogue laid the foundation for enhanced cooperation across multiple sectors, including defence, security, and technology.
Her tenure also saw significant strides in building personal and professional bridges. Reflecting on her time in Jamaica, Martinez expressed deep gratitude for the warmth and support she received.
“Jamaica has been a second home. The love and openness from Jamaicans, from the highest levels of government to the people on the streets, have made this journey unforgettable,” she said.
The gala was also a farewell for Martinez and her husband, Ambassador Edward Perez, as they prepare for new assignments in Korea and Japan, respectively. Martinez used the opportunity to celebrate her small but impactful embassy team, whose efforts she credited for the successes achieved during her over three-year tenure.