Holness and Rowley report successful bilateral talks

 Jovan Johnson, Gleaner Writer

Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his Trinidadian counterpart Dr Keith Rowley say they have reached agreements that will reset and restore the friendship between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.

The two signed a communiqué this morning at the end of Rowley's official visit to Jamaica.

The details have not been released but Rowley restated that his visit was to repel a trade war.

According to Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Kamina Johnson Smith an expected cooperation agreement is still being negotiated.

The relationship between Kingston and Port of Spain has been strained by immigration and trade-related issues that have dragged on for years.

Prime Minister Holness said the talks were open and frank and were conducted in an atmosphere of growing friendship.

He also said Rowley has given an assurance to implement measures to improve the treatment of Jamaicans who turn up at Trinidadian ports.

Prime Minister Holness said both leaders have agreed that trade relations need to improve.

Energy, tourism, air and sea transportation as well as culture were discussed throughout the visit.

Dr Rowley said it is important for Jamaica and Trinidad to build a strong relationship in the interest of both countries and the wider Caribbean region.

The Trinidadian prime minister has invited a Jamaican delegation to Trinidad and Tobago to continue the bilateral talks.