Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Guyana next month, strengthening the already robust relations between the two countries. A senior government official confirmed that “preparations are being put in place” for the high-level visit in November 2024.
Prime Minister Modi’s trip will include bilateral talks and participation in a CARICOM-India Summit, which will be hosted in Georgetown. The Indian leader is expected to stay in Guyana for two days.
Indian Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar announced the visit during a recent press briefing. Jaishankar stated, “This visit is significant as it emphasizes India’s growing engagement with the Caribbean. We look forward to fostering deeper economic and cultural ties with Guyana and other regional nations.”
His visit coincides with his planned trip to Brazil, where he will attend the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro from November 18-19. This high-profile visit follows several essential visits by senior Guyanese officials to India, including President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, Prime Minister Mark Phillips, and other Cabinet Ministers.
In January 2023, President Ali was honoured with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA), the highest accolade given to overseas Indians, by Indian President Droupadi Murmu during the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. During that trip, President Ali and Prime Minister Modi engaged in comprehensive discussions on topics such as energy, infrastructure development, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, technology, innovation, and defense cooperation.
Last month, at a press conference on September 12, Vice President Jagdeo mentioned that since President Ali’s visit to India, discussions of a reciprocal visit by Prime Minister Modi had been underway. However, Dr Jagdeo clarified that given the close ties between the two nations, there was no need to wait for the visit to advance joint projects. “There is lots of room for discussion, but I don’t want to be premature in talking about issues that have not been discussed yet or may be part of the government’s thinking,” the vice president noted.
One of the key projects funded by India is a US$7.2 million Line of Credit from the Export-Import Bank of India, which enabled the Guyanese government to deliver 30,000 solar home systems to families across all hinterland regions. Using local funds, the government procures 7,000 more solar systems to serve hinterland and riverain communities.
The Indian-funded Solar Home System Project provided 150-watt systems, batteries, and lighting kits to thousands of households. Training exercises were also conducted to help residents manage and operate the systems. India has also approved US$2.5 million for the establishment of a solar photovoltaic power plant at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, under which 75 percent of the contract price must originate from Indian suppliers.
In addition to renewable energy, the two nations are collaborating on defense cooperation, and Guyana continues to benefit from Indian technical assistance in sectors such as agriculture.
During bilateral talks, Modi will likely participate in various events that showcase Indian culture and heritage in Guyana. The visit aligns with India’s broader strategy to enhance its presence in the Caribbean, addressing mutual interests in climate change, technology, and sustainable development.
The anticipation surrounding Modi’s visit underscores the importance both nations place on building stronger partnerships for the benefit of their people.