Prime Minister Modi becomes the first Indian Prime Minister in 56 years to visit Guyana | India News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Guyana on Wednesday, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to the South American country in 56 years. He was received at Georgetown Airport by Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and more than a dozen ministers in a gesture of unprecedented warmth.
The two leaders shared a hug and exchanged pleasantries upon his arrival.
Prime Minister Modi was given a ceremonial welcome and a guard of honor in Georgetown. He will address a special session of the Guyana Parliament. He will also participate in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit with leaders from Caribbean partner countries.
The visit, undertaken at the invitation of Guyanese President Irfaan Aliemphasizes strengthening ties between India and Guyana. The Ministry of External Affairs noted the growing involvement, citing President Ali’s role as chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in January 2023.
India and Guyana share a long-standing development partnership in several sectors including healthcare, connectivity, renewable energy and defence. Recent initiatives include the delivery of a sea ferry built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, the delivery of two HAL 228 aircraft under a line of credit, solar lighting for 30,000 indigenous households and the training of 800 Guyanese professionals in India under the ITEC programme.
Identified as the fastest growing economy in the world, Guyana offers opportunities for cooperation in hydrocarbons, healthcare, education and defense.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will hold delegation-level talks with President Ali to explore these options and enhance bilateral cooperation.