PM Modi to Strengthen India’s Ties with Trinidad and Tobago
New Delhi, June 30 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a significant visit to Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) and Ghana this week. This trip highlights India’s commitment to strengthening relationships with countries in the Global South, following the Global South Summit held during the G20.
PM Modi’s trip includes five countries, with Ghana as the first stop on July 2-3, followed by Trinidad and Tobago. This will be his first visit to T&T as Prime Minister and marks the first bilateral visit from India at the Prime Minister level since 1999.
Both nations aim to broaden their collaboration in key areas such as pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, agriculture, and technology, in addition to promoting sports and cultural exchanges.
The visit is particularly meaningful as 2025 marks the 180th anniversary of Indian immigrants arriving in T&T. MEA Secretary Neena Malhotra emphasized the importance of this timing during a media briefing ahead of the trip.
During his visit, PM Modi plans to meet with President Christine Carla Kangaloo and Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to discuss ways to strengthen the bond between India and Trinidad and Tobago. He is also expected to address a joint session of T&T’s Parliament, which underscores the long-standing ties and democratic values shared between the two nations.
A vibrant Indian diaspora makes up about 40–45% of T&T’s population, maintaining strong cultural ties with India. The Prime Minister’s address is viewed as a reminder of the shared democratic traditions.
Secretary Malhotra noted that both T&T leaders take pride in their Indian heritage, referring to themselves as "daughters of India." The Indian community in T&T is eager about the visit, and a large event for the diaspora is planned.
During this trip, several agreements will likely be signed to enhance bilateral cooperation, including initiatives in health care and capacity building. PM Modi has previously engaged with T&T leaders at various international summits, underscoring India’s ongoing interest in strengthening ties with the Caribbean.
In recent months, India has welcomed numerous high-level visitors from other Global South countries, further emphasizing its focus on building international partnerships.
