Jamaica and Turkey have agreed to explore establishing trade and economic relations in the wider context of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy.

The two countries also agreed to exchange trade missions following the inaugural meeting of the Turkish-Jamaica Joint Economic Commission in Istanbul, last week. They will also look at ways to increase coordination between small and medium sized industries.

A cooperation agreement on maritime affairs is to be negotiated, while Turkish shipping companies are to be encouraged to use the expanded facilities of the port of Kingston.

Cooperation in non-trade areas such as tourism, culture, infrastructure development and natural disasters is also to be extended ahead of a second meeting to be held in Kingston at a date to be set.