Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on his journey to Guyana from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, marking the final leg of his significant three-nation tour. This visit makes him the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Guyana in 56 years.
The prime minister will co-chair the second India-CARICOM Summit alongside the Prime Minister of Grenada, the current Chairman of CARICOM, in the presence of leaders from all CARICOM countries. He is also scheduled to hold delegation-level talks with President Irfaan Ali and address the National Assembly of Guyana.
India-Guyana relations are underpinned by structured bilateral mechanisms, including a joint commission at the ministerial level and periodic consultations between foreign offices. Cultural exchange programs and a joint business council, established between the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), further bolster ties.
Developmental cooperation primarily takes place through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, which offers 50 scholarships annually across diverse fields.
Additionally, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) provides scholarships for Guyanese students to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and medical courses. To date, over 600 Indian scholars have completed training under ITEC.
India has also extended credit facilities to Guyana for agriculture and information technology initiatives, with Indian companies exploring opportunities in sectors such as biofuels, energy, minerals, and pharmaceuticals. While bilateral trade turnover remains modest, the outlook is positive and promising.
The Prime Minister’s visit is expected to deepen India-Guyana relations, explore new areas of cooperation, and promote broader regional partnerships.
(ANI)