Honduran Foreign Minister, Mario Canahuati, had a telephone conversation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister of Jamaica, Dr. Ken Baugh, yesterday regarding the matter.

Dr. Baugh reportedly provided details of the January 7th episode, while Minister Canahuati confirmed that the captain of the vessel had died during the shooting incident. Dr. Baugh reportedly expressed his regret for the casualty, which he said was precipitated by the unlawful actions of the Hondurans who were found to be fishing illegally in Jamaican waters. He also informed Canahuati of the status of the two Honduran fishermen hospitalized in Jamaica as a result of injuries they sustained during the incident.

Both ministers have agreed to continue talks between the respective ministries regarding the matter. They also agreed on the importance of diplomacy to prevent an escalation of tension.

There have been fears that diplomatic tension would develop between both countries, especially after reports that the coast guards had used unnecessary force. The Jamaican authorities have maintained that no undue force was used in intercepting the vessel.