By Milton Grannum
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday concluded his three-day visit to Guyana with a public engagement session and a vibrant cultural showcase at the National Cultural Centre in Georgetown.
Greeted with chants of “Modi! Modi! Modi!” from the enthusiastic audience, the Prime Minister reflected on the warmth and hospitality of the Guyanese people, celebrated shared cultural ties, and highlighted India and Guyana’s deepening partnership. He also added that Guyana boasts one of the most vibrant democracies in the Caribbean region.
The visit yesterday culminated with a public engagement session at the National Cultural Centre. The event featured singing and dance performances by various organizations, showcasing the traditions of the Indo-Guyanese community. The meeting at the cultural centre had a specific resonance as it was controversially built with funds earmarked for the repatriation of indentured Indian immigrants.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Modi, speaking in English, shared heartfelt reflections on his experience in Guyana.
“Coming from the mother of democracy, I felt a spiritual connection with one of the most vibrant democracies in the Caribbean region. The spirit of hospitality is in the heart of your culture, I felt that deeply, especially with President Irfaan Ali and his grandmother, especially when we planted the tree at State House. It was an emotional moment. Guyana’s unique food tradition, like dhal puri and the seven-curry meal, will remain fond memories of my visit”, the Prime Minister said.
Acknowledging the contributions of the Indo-Guyanese community, Modi saluted their achievements.
“You fought for freedom and democracy and worked to make Guyana one of the fastest-growing economies. From humble beginnings, you have risen to the top.”
He also celebrated the cultural bonds that connect India and Guyana, particularly through festivals, food, and cricket. Modi highlighted shared traditions such as Diwali and Phagwah and the enduring passion for cricket, which he described as “not just a sport but a way of life.”
In his address, PM Modi underscored India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Guyana, particularly in energy, healthcare, infrastructure, and education:
“Last year, we hosted Presi-dent Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Mark Phillips, and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo in India. Together, we are working to expand collaboration in various sectors. The second India-CARICOM summit is a testament to our commitment to the Caribbean region.”
Modi’s three-day visit first kicked off with a gathering and welcome at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown on Tuesday
night. On Wednesday, he held talks at State House with President Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, and other Cabinet members, signing several MoUs. Later that day, he attended the 2nd CARICOM-India summit at the Marriott Hotel, where he unveiled a strategic framework centred on the acronym CARICOM between India and the Caribbean Community. This framework proposed advancements in agriculture, an additional 1,000 scholarships over the next five years, technical advancements and training for youth across the region, and the establishment of an online portal for forensic education, technology, administration, law, and education, among other initiatives.
On Wednesday night, at a State Dinner hosted by President Irfaan Ali and First Lady Arya Ali at their official residence, Modi was awarded Guyana’s Order of Excellence, the country’s highest honour. He expressed gratitude for the award, stating.
“The award is just not a personal honour but recognition for the 1.4 billion Indians and their contribution to the development of Guyana.”
Reflecting on his first visit to Guyana two decades ago, Modi noted the transformation of the country stating that “A lot has changed between then and now, but the love and affection of my Guyanese brothers and sisters remain the same.”
According to both Modi and President Ali, the visit marked a historic step in reinforcing the strong cultural, economic, and diplomatic ties between India and Guyana, leaving a legacy of shared aspirations and mutual respect. Ali also added “This is not a departure but a safe flight back home with hopes that you return to our shores”.
