ECNETNews, New York, NY, March 26, 2025: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded a significant visit to Jamaica today, reaffirming the United States’ dedication to enhancing relations with its key Caribbean ally. During a joint press conference with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Rubio highlighted the strong bond between the two nations, declaring, “The ties between the people of the United States and Jamaica don’t need to be explained — they’re incredibly strong.”
Rubio pointed out that between 800,000 and 1 million Jamaicans reside in the U.S., many of whom live in Florida, his home state. “We want to continue to build on that,” he stated, while discussing prospects for increased trade, manufacturing, and investment throughout the region.
The Secretary identified Jamaica as an ideal candidate for expanded manufacturing, asserting that “it makes more sense to have more manufacturing relocated to our hemisphere.” He expressed America’s intent to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) to the Caribbean and emphasized American assistance to help Jamaica enhance its security infrastructure and create sustainable economic opportunities.
“We’re not getting out of the aid business,” Rubio confirmed. “But we want to provide aid that is strategically aligned with our foreign partners.”
In line with this commitment, Rubio announced U.S. support for the Joint Operations for the Logistics and Technology (JOLT) Fusion Center, which aims to combat lottery scamming and cyber-enabled crime. He also revealed plans to supply advanced detection equipment for Jamaica’s forensic labs and provide software, including night vision technology, to support gang suppression efforts.
Addressing security challenges, Rubio acknowledged the transnational nature of crime, including illegal gun trafficking and the influence of non-state criminal organizations. “We have to talk about security,” he remarked, highlighting emerging threats from organized crime.
Discussing regional issues, Rubio cited the ongoing crisis in Haiti, emphasizing the necessity of curbing the flow of illegal firearms and bolstering Caribbean states’ capacity to manage their own security effectively.
On the topic of foreign aid reform, Rubio asserted that U.S. assistance should foster opportunities for investment, trade, and the development of domestic intelligence capabilities. He praised Jamaica as a “great partner,” stating, “We will work closer than ever before.”
Responding to questions about the Cuban medical program, Rubio condemned what he described as “forced labor” practices by the Cuban government, calling it a form of human trafficking. “It’s egregious. While that may not be the case in Jamaica, we can’t support that system,” he said.
Rubio addressed concerns regarding U.S. immigration enforcement, reassuring legal residents that they have nothing to fear if they are not involved in criminal activities. “If you’re a green card holder and not involved in violence, you’re fine,” he stated, while underscoring a strict stance against visa misuse and extremist actions.
Discussing Chinese investments in the Caribbean, Rubio clarified that while the U.S. does not oppose development, it does warn against “predatory practices.” He cautioned that China often brings in its own labor, does not hire locals, and extends loans that lead to unsustainable debt.
“We want countries that work with and partner with us — that leads to positive results,” Rubio concluded. “I can think of no better friend in the Caribbean than Jamaica.”
Rubio’s visit paves the way for greater collaboration between Washington and Kingston, especially in security, energy, economic development, and immigration policy. “They want a hand up, not a handout,” he remarked. “Our goal is to restructure how we do foreign aid — with purpose and partnership.”
Following this visit, Secretary Rubio will meet with the prime ministers of Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, as well as the head of Haiti’s transitional council.
From Jamaica, Secretary Rubio plans to travel to Guyana, projected to become the world’s largest per capita oil producer this year, surpassing Qatar and Kuwait. Recognized as a significant offshore energy success in recent years, Guyana is now a focal point for U.S. strategic cooperation.
Rubio is expected to underscore the importance of Guyana’s security amid threats from neighboring Venezuela and encroachments around ExxonMobil’s offshore operations. The U.S. aims to establish robust security cooperation with Guyana similar to its partnerships with Gulf states to ensure regional stability and collective interests.
After Guyana, Secretary Rubio will make a brief stop in Suriname, an emerging player in offshore energy development.
