Vikrant Shekhawat : Nov 21, 2024, 11:54 AM
India-CARICOM: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a significant step to further strengthen ties with Caribbean countries during his visit to Guyana. The visit is not only an opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Guyana but has also given a new dimension to trade, technology, and cultural ties between India and Caribbean countries. Prime Minister Modi gave important directions towards enhancing cooperation with these countries with seven key proposals during the second India-CARICOM Summit held in Georgetown.First visit of Indian Prime Minister to Guyana in 50 yearsPrime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Guyana was historic as it was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 50 years. During this visit, PM Modi discussed ways to enhance cooperation in key areas such as trade, agriculture, health, pharmaceuticals, science and innovation. In Guyana, he was welcomed by President Irfaan Ali and several cabinet ministers who were present there to give importance to his visit.Seven major proposalsPrime Minister Modi emphasized on seven key areas to further strengthen India's relations with the Caribbean countries during this visit. He talked about taking steps to promote trade, technology, tourism, talent and tradition. In particular, he proposed to create an online portal to connect the private sector and other stakeholders of Caribbean countries, making cooperation between different countries more simple and effective.Focus on SME sectorPrime Minister Modi also emphasized the importance of the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector, where India is growing rapidly. He said that a grant amount of US $ 1 million was announced last year for the SME sector between India and CARICOM countries, and now there is a need to focus on implementing this proposal. Modi also said that this is a golden opportunity for Caribbean countries to strengthen their trade and industries by working together with India.New avenues of cooperation with Caribbean countriesIndia's economic cooperation with Caribbean countries is already strong, but PM Modi called for deepening it further during this visit. He has taken steps towards working together especially in the health, pharmaceuticals and agriculture sectors. This step is a big step towards improving the supply of essential commodities, food security and health sector in Caribbean countries.PM Modi welcomed in GuyanaPrime Minister Modi received a tremendous welcome in Guyana. He was warmly received at the airport by President Irfan Ali and his counterpart Prime Minister Mark Anthony Phillips. Apart from this, Prime Minister Modi also met Grenada Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell and Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, who are committed to further progress cooperation with India. During this, PM Modi expressed happiness about his welcome in Guyana on his social media and talked about cherishing it forever in his memories.ConclusionPrime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Guyana and the India-CARICOM Summit have made it clear that India is now making every effort to promote its relations globally. India's proposals and steps to open new doors in partnership with the Caribbean countries will certainly prove beneficial for both the regions. This visit will prove to be an important opportunity to further strengthen the partnership between India and the Caribbean countries.