Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indian diaspora in Guyana, emphasizing the deep-rooted connection to Indian culture. He dedicated an honor to the contributions of the Indo-Guyanese community and invited participation in significant cultural events in India. His remarks reflect a commitment to strengthen India-Guyana relations through shared heritage and collaborative future endeavors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indian diaspora in Guyana, asserting, “You can take an Indian out of India, but you cannot take India out of an Indian,” emphasizing the enduring connection to one’s heritage. Reflecting on his past visit as a curious traveler, he expressed joy in returning as the Prime Minister. At an event in Georgetown, he acknowledged the warmth of the Guyanese people and dedicated Guyana’s highest national honor, the order of excellence, to the 1.4 billion citizens of India and the 300,000 Indo-Guyanese community for their contributions to Guyana’s development.
Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who expressed gratitude towards Modi, emphasized the partnership between India and Guyana under the principles of economy, education, and energy. He affectionately referred to Modi as his “dear friend and brother.” Modi, while recognizing the Indo-Guyanese spirit and resilience, described them as “Rashtradoots,” or ambassadors of Indian culture, underscoring their dual heritage.
In addition to planting a tree with President Ali, which he called an emotional moment, Modi invited the diaspora to join significant cultural events in India, such as the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj and the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar. This outreach signifies a commitment to strengthen the Indian connection abroad and encourage continued engagement with the homeland.
The Prime Minister’s visit to Guyana represents a broader effort to strengthen the bonds between India and its diaspora, particularly in regions with significant Indo-Guyanese populations. The historical ties between India and Guyana date back to the 19th century when indentured laborers from India arrived to work on sugar plantations. Today, the vibrant Indo-Guyanese community plays a crucial role in the culture and economy of Guyana. Modi’s engagement with this community underscores his commitment to fostering international relations based on shared heritage and mutual growth.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Guyana highlights the enduring ties between India and its diaspora in the region. His remarks not only celebrate the cultural connection but also serve as an invitation to further strengthen collaboration across multiple sectors such as economy, education, and energy. His honor bestowed by Guyana reflects the mutual respect and recognition between the two nations, indicating a future of shared endeavors.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
