Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his historic first visit to Trinidad and Tobago as Prime Minister, expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended by his counterpart Kamla Persad-Bissessar and affirmed that the visit would further strengthen the bilateral partnership between the two nations.
PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour upon his arrival at Piarco International Airport, where he was warmly received by PM Persad-Bissessar, along with 38 cabinet ministers and four Members of Parliament. He described the welcome as a reflection of the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries.
“I thank Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, distinguished members of the Cabinet and MPs for the gesture of welcoming me at the airport. This visit will further cement bilateral ties between our nations,” Modi shared, adding that he looked forward to addressing the Indian community later in the day.
The ceremonial welcome included cultural performances showcasing the rich blend of Indian and Caribbean heritage, with traditional music and drum performances that greeted PM Modi as he arrived. He interacted with the Indian diaspora gathered at the airport, many of whom had waited eagerly to meet him.
On social media, PM Modi posted, “Sharing some glimpses from the welcome at Port of Spain. May the friendship between India and Trinidad & Tobago continue to scale new heights in the times to come!”
Highlighting the significant role played by the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago’s development, Modi wrote, “Many people from India made their way to Trinidad & Tobago years ago. Over the years, they distinguished themselves in several fields… while maintaining a strong cultural bond with India.”
He also met the winners of the “Bharat Ko Janiye” (Know India) Quiz — Shankar Ramjattan, Nicholas Maraj, and Vince Mahato — praising the initiative for strengthening ties between the Indian diaspora and the motherland.
This marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Trinidad and Tobago since 1999 and underscores India’s commitment to deepening ties with the Caribbean. The visit follows an invitation from Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and aims to bolster diplomatic, cultural, and people-to-people ties between the two nations.
