A Shared Vision for Global Challenges: PM Modi’s visit not only strengthens bilateral ties but also addresses global challenges such as climate change, energy security, and economic development
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Through his engagements with CARICOM leaders, the Indian diaspora, and cultural heritage sites, PM Modi underscores India’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative future for the Global South.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome from the Indian diaspora during his groundbreaking visit to Guyana, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister since Indira Gandhi in 1968. This milestone visit underscores India’s renewed commitment to strengthening ties with the Caribbean region, socialnews.xyz reported.
Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi stated on social media:
“A heartfelt thank you to the Indian community in Guyana for their warm and spirited welcome. They have shown that distance is never a barrier to staying connected to one’s roots. Glad to see the community making a mark here across different sectors.”
Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Mark Anthony Phillips, and senior ministers welcomed PM Modi at the airport, with President Ali offering a symbolic hug, reflecting the nations’ cultural and historical bonds. The Mayor of Georgetown presented Modi with the Key to the City, further emphasizing the robust bilateral relationship.
India’s developmental contributions to Guyana include funding the $25 million National Cricket Stadium and the Centre of Excellence in Information Technology, further cementing this enduring partnership
India-CARICOM Summit: Strengthening Regional Cooperation
A significant highlight of the visit was the India-CARICOM Summit, co-chaired by PM Modi, President Ali, and Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. The summit brought together leaders from 14 Caribbean nations to discuss critical areas such as trade, energy, climate action, and cultural exchange.
India, a longstanding partner of CARICOM, previously announced a $150 million credit line in 2019 to support renewable energy and climate initiatives in the region. This summit seeks to expand these partnerships, fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General Elizabeth Solomon noted:
“India is an important global actor. Our Member States are keen to develop deeper technical relationships and strengthen advocacy for small states in the international arena.”
Celebrating Cultural and Economic Bonds
Guyana’s Indo-Guyanese community, which comprises nearly 40% of the nation’s population, plays a pivotal role in preserving the cultural ties between India and Guyana. PM Modi is scheduled to visit the Indian Arrival Monument, commemorating the first Indian indentured laborers who arrived in 1838.
On the economic front, India and Guyana’s partnership is growing, particularly in energy. With over 11 billion barrels of oil reserves, Guyana offers immense potential for energy collaboration. Trade between the two nations reached $223.36 million in 2021-22, primarily in energy products.
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