Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Historic Visit to Guyana Strengthens Bilateral Ties

Georgetown, Guyana : Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival in Guyana on Wednesday marks a historic milestone as the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American nation in 56 years. The Prime Minister was warmly welcomed at Georgetown’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport by Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who was joined by over a dozen cabinet ministers in a show of unprecedented hospitality. In a moment of camaraderie, the two leaders shared a heartfelt hug and exchanged pleasantries upon Modi’s arrival.

The ceremonial welcome included a Guard of Honour, underscoring the significance of this visit to strengthen the growing ties between India and Guyana. Prime Minister Modi is set to address a special sitting of Guyana’s Parliament and participate in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit, which will bring together leaders from Caribbean nations to discuss regional cooperation and development.

This visit, invited by President Ali, comes as a testament to the burgeoning partnership between the two countries, particularly in the fields of health, defense, renewable energy, and connectivity. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the importance of President Ali's role as the chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in January 2023, reflecting the deepening bilateral engagement between the nations.

The India-Guyana partnership has seen significant developments in recent years. Notable initiatives include the delivery of an ocean-going ferry by India’s Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, the provision of two HAL 228 aircraft under a line of credit, and the installation of solar lighting for 30,000 indigenous households in Guyana. Additionally, India has been instrumental in training over 800 Guyanese professionals under its ITEC program, further fostering people-to-people ties.

Guyana, recognized as the world’s fastest-growing economy, is viewed as a key partner for India, with opportunities for collaboration in sectors such as hydrocarbons, healthcare, education, and defense. During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will engage in detailed discussions with President Ali to explore these avenues for mutual growth and collaboration.

As the two leaders work towards enhancing bilateral cooperation, the visit signifies the strengthening of India-Guyana ties, laying the foundation for a prosperous future for both nations.

Key Highlights of the Visit:

• Historic first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Guyana in 56 years
• Ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour at Georgetown airport
• Addressing a special session of Guyana’s Parliament
• Participation in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit
• Discussions on expanding cooperation in hydrocarbons, healthcare, and defense
• Delivery of key developmental initiatives, including solar lighting and professional training for Guyanese citizens

The visit is expected to build on the longstanding partnership between India and Guyana, reaffirming a commitment to shared progress in a rapidly evolving global landscape.