Economic Cooperation, Agriculture, and Food Security Among Key Areas of Focus
India’s Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, arrived in Guyana on Tuesday night for a historic three-day state visit, signaling a significant advancement in bilateral relations between the two nations. Landing at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timerhi, PM Modi was greeted warmly by President Dr. Irfaan Ali and introduced to members of the Guyanese Cabinet. This marks a pivotal moment in the partnership between the two nations.
The visit, packed with diplomatic and community engagements, includes discussions on vital areas such as economic cooperation, agriculture, food security, healthcare, and technology transfer. A key highlight will be PM Modi’s address to Guyana’s National Assembly and his participation in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit, where he will meet leaders from 14 CARICOM countries to strengthen regional collaboration.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Upon his arrival, PM Modi received a heartfelt embrace from President Ali before proceeding to the Marriott Hotel, where he was welcomed with much fanfare. The visit underscores the growing partnership between the two nations.
In an earlier interview, President Ali revealed the agenda for the bilateral discussions, stating that agreements would be signed in areas such as Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME), agro-processing, industrial development, climate action, and energy. Healthcare, particularly leveraging India’s strength in health tourism, will also be a key topic.
President Ali’s trip to India in January 2023 laid the groundwork for this collaboration, establishing working groups to advance joint initiatives in these areas. “India is an important global actor. Our Member States are keen to meet Prime Minister Modi and develop deeper technical relationships, deepen the relationship in terms of advocacy for small states in the international arena, and strengthen people-to-people ties,” noted Assistant Secretary-General for Foreign and Community Relations at the CARICOM Secretariat, Ms. Elizabeth Solomon.
Focus on Regional Collaboration
A key aspect of PM Modi’s visit is the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit. Scheduled for Wednesday, the summit will bring together the Heads of Government from 14 CARICOM countries. The discussions will build on the outcomes of previous engagements, such as the 2019 meeting held during the 74th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
According to a statement by CARICOM, “The engagement is expected to strengthen an already strong relationship in areas such as economic cooperation, agriculture and food security, health and pharmaceuticals, and science and innovations.”
The summit’s opening ceremony will feature remarks by CARICOM Chair and Prime Minister of Grenada, Hon. Dickon Mitchell, President Ali, PM Modi, and CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett.
A Legacy of Cooperation
CARICOM and India have maintained longstanding ties dating back to 1985 when an Agreement on Scientific and Technical Cooperation was signed. Since then, both parties have built a robust framework for collaboration, including agreements to enhance agribusiness, health, fisheries, and disaster management.
The relationship was further formalized in 2003 by establishing the Standing Joint Commission on Consultation, Cooperation, and Coordination between CARICOM and India. Notably, the first meeting of the CARICOM-India Joint Commission in 2015 laid out specific focus areas, such as small business development and food security.
Strengthening People-to-People Ties
PM Modi’s visit also includes engagements with the Indian community and diaspora in Guyana, highlighting the strong cultural and historical connections between the two nations. This interaction underscores the shared heritage and vibrant ties between India and Guyana.
As PM Modi co-chairs the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit, his visit is expected to deepen relations between India and the region and promote economic growth, technological advancements, and mutual prosperity.
PM Modi will conclude his visit on Thursday, marking the end of a significant chapter in Guyana-India relations.