During his historic state visit to Guyana from November 19 to 21, 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made waves not only for strengthening diplomatic relations but also for receiving accolades and sharing cultural experiences with the Indo-Guyanese community.
This visit marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has engaged with this South American nation in over five decades. On November 21, PM Modi addressed the Guyanese Parliament, symbolizing his 14th speech to foreign legislatures, making him the Indian Prime Minister with the most such addresses. His prior speeches include notable appearances before the U.S. Congress, as well as legislative bodies across Australia, the UK, and Caribbean nations like Mauritius and Jamaica.
Adding to the pomp of his visit, President Irfaan Ali awarded PM Modi the prestigious Order of Excellence, Guyana’s highest national honor. This gesture recognized Modi’s commitment to bolstering bilateral ties and acknowledged his leadership on the global stage, particularly concerning developing nations.
During his address to the Guyanese Parliament, PM Modi reflected fondly on the contributions of the Indo-Guyanese people, celebrating their identities and role as changemakers within the country. He reminisced about the richness of Indian culture brought to Guyana by ancestors who migrated nearly two centuries ago. The Prime Minister noted their persistence for freedom and democracy, contributing to Guyana's remarkable growth and development.
Earlier, Modi joined President Ali for initiatives such as planting trees under the Indian government's Ek Ped Maa ke Naam project, which symbolizes nurturing the bond between the two nations. PM Modi expressed gratitude for the historical welcome he received upon arrival, showcasing India’s cultural ties with Guyana. During his visit, he also enjoyed local Guyanese cuisine, which honors the shared culinary heritage between the nations.
The visit also encompassed engaging discussions about enhancing cooperation between India and Guyana across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and education, reflecting their focus on mutual progress. PM Modi’s visit coincided with his participation in the 19th G20 Summit held previously in Brazil and provided significant opportunities to expand India's influence within the Caribbean and support regional development.
Prominent activities included co-chairing the Second India-CARICOM Summit with Caribbean leaders, solidifying India’s position as a key developmental partner. PM Modi emphasized the importance of cultural and sporting relations, particularly the passion for cricket, highlighting heroes like Clive Lloyd and Shivnarine Chanderpaul who have made significant contributions to both Indian and Guyanese cricketing legacies.
PM Modi’s time spent with the Indian Diaspora also galvanized efforts to connect with Guyanese youth and families, with invitations to engage with Indian culture through initiatives like the Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz, which seeks to enrich knowledge about India’s diversity, beliefs, and practices.
He invited the diaspora to partake in significant cultural events such as the Maha Kumbh Mela, scheduled for January 2025, and the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas event, which celebrates the contributions of overseas Indians to nation-building.
When discussing future collaborations, PM Modi underlined India's commitment to sustainable development and the empowerment of the Global South, indicating efforts like the International Solar Alliance aimed at combating climate change. He reiterated India's growth as the world’s fifth-largest economy and projected aspirations to become third-largest, emphasizing this transformation as being inclusive, with millions lifted out of poverty through transformative government initiatives.
The shared history and struggles against colonialism act as backdrops to the enduring friendship between India and Guyana. PM Modi stated, "You can take the Indian out of India, but you cannot take India out of the Indian," emphasizing the unique bond Indian nationals share, irrespective of geographical distances.
Guyana's President Dr. Ali, at various events during Modi's stay, praised India's contributions and leadership, acknowledging the historic impact of Indian migration on Guyanese society. The collaborative atmosphere was prominent during ethnic programs showcasing the cultural vibrancy of both nations, affirming the multi-ethnic fabric of Guyana.
Through personal warmth, mutual respect, and collective aspirations, PM Modi's visit is set to deepen ties and fuel fruitful partnerships for years to come, showcasing Guyana as not just India's friend, but as part of the cultural and economic narrative shaping the future on the world stage.
Overall, the essence of PM Modi’s state visit encapsulated far more than political engagement; it marked the celebration of shared histories, cultural engagements, and mutual respect—elements at the core of India-Guyana relations. This visit underscored India's promise as it steps onto the global platform, embodying potential for collaboration beyond diplomatic engagements and cheering for mutual growth and perseverance.
