Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the prestigious ‘Key to the City’ of Georgetown as he commenced a two-day historic visit to Guyana, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 56 years. The warm reception at Georgetown International Airport included a ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour, reflecting the growing camaraderie between India and Guyana.
Strengthening India-Guyana Relations
During his visit, PM Modi is set to hold bilateral talks with Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and address a special session of Guyana’s Parliament. The discussions aim to enhance collaboration across key sectors, including health, renewable energy, defense, and connectivity.
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#WATCH | Guyana: PM Narendra Modi presented with the ‘Key to the City’ of Georgetown.
PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Guyana. During his visit, he will hold a bilateral with President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and will address a special sitting of Guyana’s parliament. He will also join… pic.twitter.com/AN62gmgIw6
— ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2024
India and Guyana have a long-standing developmental partnership, evident in recent projects such as:
- Delivery of an ocean-going ferry by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers.
- Provision of two HAL 228 aircraft under an Indian line of credit.
- Installation of solar lighting for 30,000 indigenous households.
- Training of 800 Guyanese professionals under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program.
Focus on Economic and Strategic Cooperation
Guyana, recognized as the world’s fastest-growing economy, offers immense potential for partnerships in hydrocarbons, education, and healthcare. PM Modi’s visit underscores India’s interest in fostering stronger ties with this Caribbean nation, which holds strategic significance in South America.
The trip also includes participation in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit, where PM Modi will meet leaders from Caribbean partner nations to explore regional collaborations.
Historic Significance
President Ali, who served as the chief guest at India’s Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in January 2023, welcomed PM Modi with an embrace, marking the visit as a milestone in Indo-Guyanese relations. The visit underscores mutual aspirations for growth and deepened partnerships, with a focus on sustainable development and strategic collaboration.
The bilateral talks and summit engagements are expected to yield actionable outcomes, propelling India-Guyana relations to new heights.
