New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a five-day diplomatic tour to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana on November 16, with the aim of strengthening bilateral ties and participating in the G20 Summit in Brazil. His trip is scheduled from November 16 to 21 and includes engagements with leaders and communities in these nations.
Nigeria: Strengthening Strategic Partnership
PM Modi’s first stop is Nigeria, where he was invited by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The visit will focus on reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, based on shared values of democracy and pluralism. During his stay from November 16 to 17, Modi will also engage with the Indian community in Nigeria, expressing his appreciation for their warm welcome.
In his statement, Modi expressed his excitement for the visit, stating, “This will be my first visit to Nigeria, a close partner in the West African region. I look forward to building on our Strategic Partnership and engaging with the Indian community and friends in Nigeria.”
Brazil: G20 Summit and Global South Priorities
Next, PM Modi will travel to Brazil for the 19th G20 Summit on November 18-19, where he will participate as a member of the Troika (the group of past, current, and future G20 Presidents). Modi highlighted that Brazil, following India’s successful G20 presidency, would continue to focus on the priorities of the Global South. The summit will feature discussions on global challenges, with an emphasis on inclusivity and sustainability, under the theme “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”
In his statement, he also expressed his eagerness to discuss bilateral cooperation with other world leaders, stating, “I look forward to meaningful discussions and to exchange views on furthering cooperation with several leaders.”
Guyana: Historic Visit and India-CARICOM Summit
PM Modi’s final destination is Guyana, at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. This visit marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Guyana in over 50 years. The trip is significant for its focus on shared heritage, culture, and values. Modi will also pay his respects to the Indian diaspora in Guyana, which has roots dating back over 185 years.
Moreover, the Prime Minister will participate in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit, where he will meet Caribbean leaders to explore new avenues for collaboration and reaffirm historical ties between India and the Caribbean nations.
PM Modi said, “We will exchange views on giving strategic direction to our unique relationship, based on shared heritage. I will also address the Guyanese Parliament and engage with one of the oldest Indian diaspora.”
During the visit, PM Modi will be honored with the Dominica Award of Honour from the Commonwealth of Dominica in recognition of his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to strengthen relations between India and Dominica.
This tour underscores India’s commitment to expanding diplomatic relations across regions and promoting deeper collaboration on global challenges, economic development, and cultural exchanges.
