Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Guyana signals a deepening of India’s relations with the Caribbean nation. With discussions spanning trade, energy collaboration, and cultural ties, the visit could pave the way for significant economic and geopolitical gains for both nations.
By PC Bureau
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Guyana on Wednesday, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American country in 56 years. He was received at the Georgetown airport by Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and over a dozen cabinet ministers in a gesture of unprecedented warmth.
The two leaders shared a hug and exchanged pleasantries upon his arrival. PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour in Georgetown and is set to address a special sitting of Guyana’s parliament. He will also participate in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit with leaders from Caribbean partner nations.
The visit, undertaken at the invitation of Guyanese President Irfaan Ali, highlights the strengthening ties between India and Guyana. The ministry of external affairs mentioned the growing engagement, citing President Ali’s role as chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in January 2023.
India and Guyana share a longstanding developmental partnership across various sectors, including health, connectivity, renewable energy, and defense. Recent initiatives include the delivery of an ocean-going ferry built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, the provision of two HAL 228 aircraft under a line of credit, solar lighting for 30,000 indigenous households, and the training of 800 Guyanese professionals in India under the ITEC program.
Guyana, identified as the world’s fastest-growing economy, presents opportunities for collaboration in hydrocarbons, healthcare, education, and defense.
In his visit, PM Modi will engage in delegation-level talks with President Ali to explore these possibilities and enhance bilateral cooperation.
