What Cultural Bonds Did PM Modi Highlight in Trinidad & Tobago?

Port of Spain, July 4 (NationPress) Prime Minister Modi, on Thursday, highlighted the cultural and historical connections between Trinidad and Tobago and India during his significant two-day visit to this Caribbean nation.

"A cultural connection like no other! I was thrilled to witness a Bhojpuri Chautaal performance in Port of Spain. The bond between Trinidad & Tobago and India, particularly from regions like eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, is remarkable," PM Modi expressed in a social media post on platform X.

Upon his arrival, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome, with locals joyfully dancing to the rhythm of drums and showcasing traditional music and performances that displayed a mix of local and Indian culture.

His visit to Port of Spain marks the second stop in his five-nation tour. During his time in Trinidad and Tobago, PM Modi plans to engage in high-level discussions with the nation's leadership to further strengthen bilateral ties.

PM Modi also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora present at the airport, many of whom were eagerly anticipating his arrival.

Sharing moments from the welcoming event, Modi expressed his desire for the friendship between India and Trinidad & Tobago to continue to "scale new heights" in the future.

He posted on X, "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!"

During the visit, PM Modi met with members of the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago, underscoring their contributions to the development of the Caribbean nation.

"Many individuals from India arrived in Trinidad & Tobago years ago. Over time, they have excelled in various fields, contributing significantly to Trinidad & Tobago's development journey. They have also maintained a connection with India and cherish Indian culture. I am grateful to the local Indian community for their unforgettable welcome in Port of Spain," PM Modi noted on X.

He also met Shankar Ramjattan, Nicholas Maraj, and Vince Mahato, winners of the Bharat Ko Janiye (Know India) Quiz held in Trinidad and Tobago.

"I had the pleasure of meeting the young winners of the Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz in Trinidad and Tobago. This initiative has seen extensive participation globally and has further deepened our diaspora's connection with India," PM Modi remarked.

In a statement on X, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared that "PM Narendra Modi has arrived in the capital city of Port of Spain in Trinidad & Tobago, to a warm ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour. In a notable gesture, PM was welcomed by PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and members of her Cabinet, along with various dignitaries at the airport."

“I arrived in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago. I extend my gratitude to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, distinguished Cabinet members, and MPs for their welcoming gesture at the airport,” Modi also mentioned on X. “This visit aims to further solidify our bilateral ties. I look forward to addressing a community program shortly,” he added.

This signifies PM Modi’s inaugural visit to Trinidad and Tobago as Prime Minister and marks the first bilateral visit by any Indian Prime Minister to this Caribbean nation since 1999.

In another post, PM Modi expressed his hopes for strengthening ties, stating, “May the friendship between India and Trinidad & Tobago continue to scale new heights in the times to come!” alongside images from the ceremonial welcome.

After checking into his hotel, Modi was welcomed by enthusiastic members of the Indian diaspora, chanting slogans of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Modi, Modi'.

“Many individuals from India settled in Trinidad & Tobago years ago. They have made their mark in various sectors and significantly contribute to Trinidad & Tobago’s development journey while maintaining their connection with India and a deep love for Indian culture. I am thankful to the local Indian community for their unforgettable welcome in Port of Spain,” PM Modi stated on X.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the special gesture of the Trinidadian leadership in personally receiving PM Modi at the airport, describing it as a warm ceremonial welcome.

The Prime Minister’s Office emphasized that the vibrant reception from the Indian community reflects the enduring cultural ties and shared heritage between the two nations.

During his stay, PM Modi is set to meet with President Christine Carla Kangaloo and Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar to discuss fostering bilateral cooperation.

He is also anticipated to address a Joint Session of the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago.

Later today, PM Modi will participate in a community program at the National Cycling Velodrome in Couva, continuing his outreach to the Indian diaspora.

Before his arrival, PM Modi expressed his eagerness to deepen relations with a “valued partner in the Caribbean,” emphasizing the profound cultural connections between the two nations.

PM Modi arrived in Port of Spain from Ghana, where he held extensive discussions with the country's leadership, culminating in the elevation of India-Ghana ties to a Comprehensive Partnership.

Following this, PM Modi will travel to Argentina (July 4–5) as part of the third leg of his tour, followed by Brazil, where he will partake in the 17th BRICS Summit and conduct a state visit. The final destination on his itinerary will be Namibia.