Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a pivotal five-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana, with the aim of strengthening bilateral ties and advancing India’s global diplomatic agenda. The visit starting today (Nov 16, 2024), spanning across three diverse regions, is set to foster strategic partnerships based on shared values and historical connections.
First Stop
In Nigeria, the Prime Minister will make his first-ever visit at the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Stressing the importance of the relationship between India and Nigeria, he said in his departure statement, “This visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership, which is grounded in our shared belief in democracy and pluralism.” India and Nigeria, both significant players in their respective regions, have long enjoyed strong diplomatic and economic ties, and this visit aims to further deepen this cooperation. He also expressed his eagerness to meet the Indian community and friends in Nigeria, remarking, “I am particularly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and the friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi.”
Second Stop
Next, the Prime Minister heads to Brazil to attend the 19th G-20 Summit, where India is serving as a Troika member. Reflecting on the G-20’s role, the Prime Minister noted, “Last year, India’s successful Presidency elevated the G-20 to the people’s G-20, and we mainstreamed the priorities of the Global South into its agenda. This year, Brazil has built upon India’s legacy.” At the summit, Prime Minister Modi will participate in discussions that align with India’s vision of a united world: “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” Additionally, he will seize the opportunity to engage with other world leaders on advancing bilateral cooperation.
Third Stop
In a historic move, the Prime Minister will also visit Guyana, where he will become the first Indian Prime Minister to do so in over 50 years. At the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the visit aims to enhance bilateral relations, rooted in shared cultural and historical ties. “We will exchange views on giving strategic direction to our unique relationship, which is based on shared heritage, culture, and values,” said the Prime Minister. During his visit, he will also pay respects to the Indian diaspora in Guyana, which traces its origins back more than 185 years. The Prime Minister is also scheduled to address the Parliament of Guyana, further cementing the strong democratic ties between the two nations.
India-CARICOM Summit
Finally, the Prime Minister will participate in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit, where leaders from Caribbean nations will gather to renew historical ties and explore new avenues for cooperation. Highlighting the importance of India’s partnership with the Caribbean, the PM stated, “We have stood together through thick and thin. The Summit will enable us to renew historical ties and expand our cooperation into new domains.”