In a historic moment for Indo-Caribbean relations, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to receive Trinidad and Tobago’s highest national honor — the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT) — during his two-day visit to the twin-island nation from July 3–4, 2025.
The prestigious award, approved by the Cabinet led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, marks the first time an Indian leader has received Trinidad and Tobago’s highest civilian honor. It stands as a testament to the enduring diplomatic, cultural, and people-to-people ties between the two nations, which share over 180 years of historic connection rooted in the arrival of Indian indentured laborers in 1845.
Modi’s visit takes place amid increasing cooperation between India and the Caribbean region, where several countries have recently commended him for his leadership, global advocacy for developing nations, and essential pandemic-era diplomacy.
Celebrated Across the Caribbean
Trinidad and Tobago will join an expanding list of Caribbean nations that have recognized Modi’s contributions on the global stage. During the India-Caricom Summit held in Guyana in November 2024, Modi received The Order of Excellence — Guyana’s highest civilian honor — from President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. The award honored Modi’s visionary leadership, his support for the rights of developing countries, and his role in strengthening India-Guyana relations.
During the same summit, Dominica awarded its National Honour of Merit to Modi. President Sylvanie Burton and Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit recognized India’s vital support during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the delivery of lifesaving vaccines and medical supplies.
Barbados followed suit, with Prime Minister Mia Mottley announcing the Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados for Modi, citing his strategic leadership and valuable international assistance during the global health crisis. Although Modi could not receive the award in person, it was accepted on his behalf by Pabitra Margherita, the Indian Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles.
Strengthening of Bilateral Relations
An official release from the Office of the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago states that Modi’s visit aims to enhance cooperation in important sectors such as finance, trade, agriculture, health, education, ICT, foreign policy, culture, and energy.
The bilateral talks are expected to lead to new initiatives in areas such as digital governance, clean energy partnerships, scholarship programs, and healthcare infrastructure investments.
India has already provided technological support to several Caribbean nations through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program. It has been a dependable partner in South-South cooperation worldwide. Modi’s visit indicates a further commitment to expanding those efforts.
Grand Welcome Planned
Modi will arrive at Piarco International Airport on Thursday morning, July 3, aboard his official aircraft. A red-carpet reception will greet him, complete with a ceremonial guard of honor and performances of the national anthems of both India and Trinidad and Tobago by the Defense Force band. A high-level delegation of government officials will meet the Indian Prime Minister on the tarmac.
After arriving, Modi will check into his hotel and later attend an important cultural event at the Cycling Velodrome that evening. Over 4,000 people are expected to participate, showcasing a mix of Indian and Caribbean cultures through music, dance, and heritage.
On Friday, July 4, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to address a joint session of Trinidad and Tobago’s Parliament at the historic Red House, followed by a courtesy visit with President Christine Kangaloo at the President’s House.
He will also hold bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and key members of her Cabinet. Sources indicate that a formal state dinner will be hosted at the Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s in Modi’s honor. There are also plans for him to attend the consecration of a murti (a sacred Hindu statue) at a prominent temple. This significant gesture acknowledges the spiritual and cultural bond between India and Trinidad and Tobago.
A Global Leader Recognized Both Nationally and Globally
Modi’s reception in Trinidad and Tobago underscores his growing stature not only in South Asia but also across the developing world. Now in his third consecutive term as India’s Prime Minister, Modi has been recognized by more than 20 countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Russia, for his leadership and diplomacy on the international stage.
In 2021, the United Nations named Modi the Champion of the Earth for his dedication to renewable energy and environmental sustainability. Under his leadership, India has emerged as a global advocate for climate justice, digital public infrastructure, and international cooperation in pandemic response.
This visit — the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Trinidad and Tobago in over 40 years — marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations and paves the way for stronger economic, cultural, and strategic partnerships between India and the Caribbean.
By honoring Prime Minister Modi with its highest award, Trinidad and Tobago not only celebrates a global leader but also reaffirms the enduring connection between Port of Spain and New Delhi — a bond forged on shared history, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a better, more connected future.