Cuba and Jamaica have expressed profound gratitude for the humanitarian aid and relief materials sent by India following the severe devastation caused by Caribbean hurricane Melissa.
Kingston: Following the devastation caused by the destructive Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean Sea, India has once again embodied the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the world is one family) on a global scale by sending humanitarian aid to Cuba and Jamaica. Both nations have applauded India's swift and comprehensive relief efforts, stating that this assistance is not merely material support but an example of "a shared spirit of humanity."
Leaders from Cuba and Jamaica expressed their gratitude to the Government of India, the Indian Air Force, and the people of India, stating that India's help in this difficult time is a symbol of "true friendship and global unity."
20 Tons of Relief Material Delivered
According to India's Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Havana, approximately 20 tons of relief material were sent to Cuba and Jamaica aboard a special Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft. This relief package included Bhishma Medical Trauma Units, power generators, tents, solar lamps, kitchen and hygiene kits, as well as bedding and medicines. Cuba's Ministry of Foreign Affairs thanked India on social media, writing,
'We express our gratitude to the Government of India and the Indian Air Force for sending medical equipment and two 'Bhishma hospital units' for our people affected by Hurricane Melissa. India's gesture will always be remembered.'
The Indian Embassy stated that this assistance is inspired by India's philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth, One Family, One Future," which is a core principle of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Global South" policy.
Jamaica: India Once Again Showcases Humanitarian Leadership
Jamaica's Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith wrote on X (formerly Twitter), addressing India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar,
'India's 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' is not just a G20 theme but a humanitarian approach. India has sent solar lamps, generators, medical supplies, and 'Bhishma' trauma kits. Our people will never forget this support, just as we remember 'Vaccine Maitri.' '
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar responded to her message, stating that India stands firmly with Jamaica during this difficult time. "Our sympathies and support are always with you."
Devastation Caused by Hurricane Melissa
Hurricane Melissa is being described as the most powerful storm in the Atlantic Ocean in the last 150 years. Winds gusting up to 250 km/h and heavy rainfall caused widespread destruction in Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti. Over 75 deaths have been confirmed so far, while thousands have been left homeless. According to a United Nations (UN) report, approximately 5 million metric tons of debris were spread across Western Jamaica alone — equivalent to about 500,000 truckloads. Initial assessments indicate that the hurricane caused an estimated 30% loss to Jamaica's GDP.
Both Cuba and Jamaica have stated that India's humanitarian assistance has accelerated their relief and reconstruction efforts. The Cuban government issued a statement saying, "This aid from India marks the beginning of a new chapter of humanitarian cooperation between us and India. These relations are not just diplomatic but are based on humanitarian values."
India's Ministry of External Affairs stated that this assistance is part of "Prime Minister Narendra Modi's humanity-first foreign policy" and "solidarity with the Global South." The ministry also added that India will remain prepared to assist countries affected by natural disasters in the future.
