New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Guyana, marking the first by an Indian PM in 56 years, was met with a resounding welcome, showcasing a vibrant display of Indian culture and tradition.
President Irfaan Ali along with over a dozen cabinet ministers greeted Modi at the airport with a huge gathering of the Indian diaspora.
VIDEO | PM Modi (@narendramodi) becomes the first Indian PM to visit #Guyana in 56 years.
In an unprecedented gesture, he was received at the airport by President Irfan Ali and over a dozen cabinet ministers.
(Source: Third Party)
(Full video available on PTI Videos -… pic.twitter.com/8Nrh99sjXC
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 20, 2024
The enthusiasm was palpable, with crowds of all ages eager to witness the landmark occasion. The Indian diaspora in Guyana, comprising over 40% of the population, enthusiastically showcased their rich cultural heritage through music, dance and attire, highlighting a deep-rooted connection to India.
Rudra Jayanta Bhagawati, Director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, expressed the excitement of the people, emphasising the “historic” nature of the visit. “It was 1968 when an Indian PM came here for the last time. People are very excited and we are waiting for PM Modi”.
#WATCH | Members of the Indian diaspora await the arrival of PM Modi in Georgetown, Guyana
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day state visit to the Caribbean nation at the invitation of Guyana’s President Mohamed Irfaan Ali commences today – pic.twitter.com/nQfsNmKdD0
— ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2024
Modi’s visit isn’t simply a symbolic gesture; it’s a significant step towards solidifying India’s engagement with the Caribbean region. The second India-CARICOM Summit, co-chaired by Modi and the Prime Minister of Grenada, is a key aspect of this engagement. The summit, with leaders from all CARICOM countries in attendance, promises to unlock new avenues for collaboration.
Modi is also scheduled to hold delegation-level talks with President Ali and address the National Assembly, emphasising the depth and breadth of India-Guyana relations.
Beyond the summit, Modi’s trip signifies a renewed focus on bilateral cooperation. India and Guyana maintain a strong framework of ties, with a functioning ministerial-level joint commission, periodic consultations between foreign offices, and active cultural exchange programs.
The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, with 50 scholarships annually, and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships enabling Guyanese students to study in India, are vital components of this partnership. India’s support through credit facilities and collaborative interest in key sectors like agriculture, information technology, biofuels, energy, minerals, and pharmaceuticals are further examples of the mutual benefit of the relationship.
Modi’s visit, coming on the heels of his participation in the G20 summit where he emphasized India’s role in global development, underscores the country’s growing influence on the world stage.
