In Kingston, Jamaica, the U.S. Secretary of State announced on Wednesday that the State Department will re-evaluate its travel advisories for Jamaica and other countries to ensure they align with current conditions. As part of a broader Caribbean tour, the Secretary of State addressed concerns from Jamaican officials regarding the travel warning, which advises Americans to reconsider visiting due to high crime levels. This warning poses a challenge for Jamaica’s tourism-dependent economy.
During his discussions, the Secretary agreed to revisit the travel advisories but defended the U.S. administration’s critique of a Cuban government initiative that sends healthcare workers to countries like Jamaica. While Jamaica benefits from this program, the U.S. administration alleges it violates international labor norms and equates to human trafficking in some cases.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized the positive impact of the Cuban medical program, supported within Jamaican laws, countering the claims of trafficking. He expressed appreciation for the U.S. decision to review travel advisories, which could further boost Jamaica’s tourism sector, highlighting progress in crime reduction. Holness stated, “We are committed to ensuring advisories reflect current realities and promote travel to Jamaica.”
The U.S. State Department’s tour will also include stops in Guyana and Suriname, marking a growing focus on the Western Hemisphere. The Secretary of State aims to reduce Caribbean nations’ reliance on Venezuelan oil and address illegal immigration. Recently, President Donald Trump announced sanctions on Venezuelan oil, hinting at potential tariffs on countries importing Venezuelan oil.
On the topic of the Cuban medical program, Holness assured that foreign medical personnel receive due protection under Jamaican laws, despite the U.S.’s view of such programs resembling forced labor due to indirect payment structures. However, the Secretary noted differences in program administration, acknowledging Jamaica’s compliance with labor standards.
Furthermore, the U.S. Secretary of State addressed the situation in Haiti, where an international peacekeeping force aims to curb gang control. Discussions are underway, including conversations with Kenyan leadership, who are heading the peacekeeping efforts. Despite a freeze on U.S. foreign aid, waivers are in place to sustain the security force, although future support details remain uncertain.
Overall, the U.S.-Jamaica dialogue reinforces cooperative efforts in security, tourism, and healthcare, amid broader geopolitical maneuvers affecting regional stability and development.