‘Written in runs, respect, and friendship’: Jaishankar celebrates India-Jamaica ties at Sabina Park

In a tribute to the shared heritage of two cricket-loving nations, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar described the India-Jamaica relationship as one “written in runs, written in respect, and written in friendship.” Speaking at the iconic Sabina Park stadium on Sunday, Jaishankar was joined by Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness to formally unveil a state-of-the-art electronic scoreboard, a gift from India to the people of Jamaica. "Sports brings nations together by creating shared experiences and fostering mutual respect," Jaishankar told the gathering of dignitaries and cricket enthusiasts. "May this scoreboard count many great innings to come. Among them, that of India-Jamaica friendship." he added. ‘The India-Jamaica story is written in runs, written in respect, written in friendship.’ Joined Prime Minister @AndrewHolnessJM in formally dedicating the electronic scoreboard at Sabina Park, gifted by India. ‘May this scoreboard count many great innings to come.

Among them,… pic.twitter.com/h5dxnZC6cX — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 4, 2026 Cricket as a diplomatic bridge Jaishankar took a trip down memory lane, speaking about Sabina Park’s significance in the Indian cricketing psyche. He specifically noted that it was at this ground that Indian legend Rahul Dravid scored a historic century and where current icon Virat Kohli began his Test career in 2011.

The Minister also paid homage to Jamaican legends who are household names in India, including Michael Holding, Courtney Walsh, and Chris Gayle. In a lighthearted post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar noted that the "Universe Boss" Chris Gayle was missed at the ceremony. Beyond the boundary Beyond symbolism, Jaishankar’s visit delivers tangible gains in healthcare, energy, and cultural ties. During his trip, Jaishankar focused on strengthening cooperation across critical sectors, particularly healthcare and development support.

In a major push to medical assistance, he handed over 10 BHISHM emergency medical units and announced the supply of 30 dialysis machines. It was a pleasure to welcome India’s Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to Jamaica, yesterday.

We had productive discussions on strengthening Jamaica–India relations, building on a partnership that continues to grow across key areas such as education, technology, agriculture,… pic.twitter.com/0LhiIFbp7R — Andrew Holness (@AndrewHolnessJM) May 5, 2026 The visit also saw concrete progress on the policy front, with three Memorandums of Understanding signed in areas including health cooperation, renewable energy through solarisation, and broadcasting. Jaishankar also paid tribute to the deep historical links between India and Jamaica, visiting the Indian Arrival Memorial at Old Harbour, where the first Indians arrived more than 180 years ago. The visit is being seen as an important step in strengthening India’s outreach to the Global South and deepening ties with the Caribbean region.