Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described his visit to Guyana as a “significant milestone” in the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations. His trip marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Guyana in 56 years.
PM Modi, who was warmly welcomed by Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, took the opportunity to reflect on his personal connection to the country, having previously visited 24 years ago as an ordinary citizen. Addressing a joint press conference with President Ali, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm reception and stated, “It is a significant milestone that an Indian PM has come here after 56 years. I have a personal connection with Guyana. 24 years ago, I had the opportunity to come here as a regular citizen. Today, I am fortunate to come here as a Prime Minister.”
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the strong relationship between India and Guyana, emphasizing President Ali’s special ties to India, particularly his participation in the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas last year, which served to inspire both nations to elevate their cooperation to new heights.
During the discussions, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to resolving global issues through “dialogue and diplomacy” and stressed the importance of reforming international institutions to address contemporary challenges. PM Modi highlighted that climate justice remains a shared priority for both countries, with a collective resolve to continue progressing in all areas of cooperation.
“Our relations were established by those who arrived from India here, in Guyana, 180 years ago. Today, the Indian community plays a significant role in the development of Guyana,” PM Modi added.
The visit included the exchange of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between the two countries, reflecting a deepening of their partnership. In Georgetown, PM Modi also held delegation-level talks with various government officials.
Upon his arrival in Guyana earlier in the day, PM Modi received an unprecedented reception at the airport, where he was greeted by President Ali and more than a dozen cabinet ministers. The arrival ceremony included a Guard of Honour and cultural performances featuring traditional dances. As part of the formal welcome, PM Modi was presented with the ‘Key to the City of Georgetown.’
In a heartfelt message posted on X, PM Modi thanked the Indian diaspora in Guyana, writing, “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.”
(With inputs from ANI)
