Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday started a five-day diplomatic tour to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana.
According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the journey is crucial in the history of the country, describing it as a pivotal move to strengthen India’s ties with key global partners.
The Ministry’s spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, called the trip “action-packed,” emphasizing the breadth of its agenda. In a post on X, Jaiswal wrote, “An action-packed visit begins! PM Narendra Modi emplanes on a 3-nation visit to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana. On the first leg of his visit, PM will be visiting Nigeria, which is the first visit by an Indian PM to Nigeria in 17 years. In Brazil, PM will be participating in the G20 Leaders’ Summit and meet world leaders. From there, PM will be on a State visit to Guyana, first visit by an Indian PM to Guyana in over 50 years.”
Modi’s first destination is Nigeria, marking a significant moment as it is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the West African nation in nearly two decades. The visit comes at the invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“This visit will provide an opportunity to enhance our Strategic Partnership, founded on shared values of democracy and pluralism. I am looking forward to engaging with the Indian community and friends in Nigeria, who have sent warm messages in Hindi,” Modi said, ahead of his arrival in Abuja.
Following Nigeria, the Prime Minister will attend the 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil from November 18-19, with India participating as a member of the influential Troika group. Modi is expected to play a pivotal role in discussions, following India’s successful G20 presidency earlier this year.
“Brazil has carried forward India’s legacy of emphasizing Global South priorities. I look forward to meaningful discussions aligned with our vision of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future,’ and to strengthening bilateral cooperation with global leaders,” Modi stated.
The final stop on the tour is Guyana, where Modi’s visit will be the first by an Indian leader in over fifty years. His itinerary includes a historic address to the Guyanese Parliament and engagements with the Indian diaspora, which has deep roots in the Caribbean nation.
“Guyana holds a unique place in India’s heart, sharing cultural and historical ties. My visit, at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, will focus on setting a strategic direction for our partnership while honoring one of the oldest Indian diasporas,” Modi said.
While in Guyana, Modi will also take part in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit, emphasizing India’s commitment to its Caribbean allies and exploring new areas for cooperation.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
