GeorgetownPrime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Guyana has injected new energy into India-Guyana relations. After 56 years, the visit of an Indian Prime Minister has assumed historical significance. Prime Minister Modi and Guyana President Mohammed Irfan Ali agreed to enhance cooperation in several important sectors such as defence, trade, energy, health, pharma and agriculture. The visit is being seen as the beginning of a new era of diplomatic and economic partnership between the two countries.
Foundation of agreements to strengthen relations
Prime Minister Modi and President Irfan Ali signed five important agreements. These include cooperation in hydrocarbon, healthcare, culture and agriculture sectors. PM Modi said, “Guyana will play an important role in India’s energy security. We are creating a solid framework for a long-term partnership.”
The visit began after the conclusion of the G-20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. “We have identified several new initiatives to take India-Guyana cooperation to new heights,” PM Modi said.
Defense and Health: New Dimensions
Discussions took place to further strengthen close cooperation between the two countries in the defense sector. PM Modi described it as a symbol of ‘deep mutual trust’. India’s pharmaceutical industry is a major supplier of medicines to Guyana. Both countries promised to increase cooperation in the health sector and encourage export of pharma products.
Discussion on global and regional issues
Prime Minister Modi and President Ali discussed regional and global issues. PM Modi said that “solution to every problem is possible through dialogue and diplomacy.” The two leaders also discussed topics such as terrorism, climate change and improving global trade. President Ali described Prime Minister Modi as the true champion of developing countries.
‘A tree in the name of mother’ initiative
Prime Minister Modi planted a sapling in Georgetown, Guyana under the ‘One Tree in Mother’s Name’ initiative. The aim of this initiative is to increase environmental protection and awareness. “This initiative not only shows our commitment towards the environment but also symbolizes respect for the mother power,” he said.
Personal glimpse of historical journey
Prime Minister Modi also described this visit as personally special. He said, “24 years ago I had the opportunity to come to Guyana. It is a proud moment for me to come here today as Prime Minister. “Guyana and India share a special relationship, which will be further strengthened by this visit.”
Guyana’s grand welcome
President Irfan Ali introduced the culture and traditions of Guyana in welcoming Prime Minister Modi. He said that this visit will prove to be a milestone in increasing cooperation between the two countries.
India-Guyana relations look towards the future
This partnership between India and Guyana will not be limited to just trade and defense relations. Intensive cooperation is also expected in sectors like agriculture, health and energy. Prime Minister Modi described Guyana’s growing economy and its natural resources as vital to India’s needs.
