A visit to China helped move the road project forward after years of delays. In Jamaica, the North–South Highway, or the "Beijing Highway", built with Chinese support, has cut a two-hour drive to less than half.

When asked about US concerns over China's growing influence, Jamaica's former prime minister Bruce Golding said: "There is no danger in it. Our discussions have always been based on mutual respect and profound understanding. I'm hoping that we will have the courage and fortitude to protect our relationship with China."