How did Parliamentarians in Trinidad & Tobago respond to PM Modi's historic speech?

Port of Spain, July 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the Parliament of Trinidad & Tobago on Thursday received continuous applause from the Members of Parliament (MPs) of this esteemed House. During his speech at the Joint Assembly, PM Modi expressed his gratitude, feeling honored to be the first Indian Prime Minister to address the members in the historic Red House.

While speaking to Trinidad & Tobago's Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Senate President Wade Mark, Speaker of the House Jagdeo Singh, and other Parliament members, PM Modi emphasized the warm bilateral relationship shared by India and Trinidad & Tobago.

His speech was met with over 20 interruptions from MPs who warmly applauded his remarks.

PM Modi expressed that he was deeply honored to stand before the elected representatives of Trinidad & Tobago, a proud democracy and friendly nation.

He extended greetings to the Parliament on behalf of 1.4 billion people in India and conveyed warm wishes from the people of Ghana, whom he visited prior to arriving in this Caribbean island nation.

"This historic Red House has witnessed the struggles and sacrifices of the people of Trinidad and Tobago for their freedom and dignity. Over the past six decades, it has remained resilient as you have built a just, inclusive, and prosperous democracy," said PM Modi.

He remarked that the people of this great nation have chosen two remarkable women leaders, the President and the Prime Minister, who proudly identify as daughters of the Indian diaspora and take pride in their Indian heritage. PM Modi added that they are living symbols of the relationship between the two countries, founded on shared roots and dreams.

He also highlighted that both India and Trinidad & Tobago emerged from colonial rule to craft their narratives—"with courage as our ink and democracy as our pen".

"Today, both our nations stand as proud democracies and pillars of strength in the modern world. A couple of months ago, you celebrated the festival of democracy by participating in elections. I congratulate the people of this country for their wisdom and vision—for peace, stability, and prosperity. I also congratulate the newly elected members of this esteemed House," said PM Modi.

He also conveyed warm congratulations to PM Persad-Bissessar for her second consecutive term in government and wished her continued success in leading the nation towards sustained growth and prosperity.

PM Modi emphasized the significance of the words inscribed on the Speaker's Chair in the Parliament, "FROM THE PEOPLE OF INDIA TO THE PEOPLE OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO," stating: "This chair is not merely furniture but a powerful symbol of the friendship and trust between our nations. The words express the bond that one democracy feels for another."

He remarked that in India, "democracy is not just a political system but a way of life".

"Your Parliament also includes members whose ancestors hailed from the Indian state of Bihar, known for its historical centers like Vaishali," he added.

"There exists a natural warmth in the connection between our two nations. I must say, Indians are among the most passionate supporters of the West Indies cricket team! We cheer for them wholeheartedly, except when they play against India," he noted.

The relationship between the two nations is grounded in centuries-old bonds. PM Modi stated that approximately 180 years ago, the first Indians arrived on this land after a long and arduous journey. "Oceans away, the Indian beats blended beautifully with the Caribbean rhythm," he remarked.

Highlighting the profound historical and cultural ties between India and Trinidad & Tobago, PM Modi noted: "Here, Bhojpuri found harmony with creole, Dal Puri met Doubles, and tabla met the steel pan! Today, the people of Indian origin proudly wave the Red, Black, and White Flag! From politics to poetry, cricket to commerce, calypso to chutney, they contribute to every field and are integral to the vibrant diversity you all cherish. Together, you have built a nation that lives by its motto, 'Together we aspire, together we achieve.'"

Earlier that day, President Christine Kangaloo graciously awarded PM Modi the country's highest national honor, which he accepted with deep humility on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India.

PM Modi expressed gratitude for receiving this honor and dedicated it to the enduring friendship and ancestral ties between India and Trinidad & Tobago.

"I am delighted to see so many women Members in this House. Respect for women is deeply rooted in Indian culture. One of our important holy texts, the Skanda Puranas, states: 'दशपुत्र समा कन्या दशपुत्रान् प्रवर्धयन् | यत् फलं लभते मर्त्यः तत् लभ्यं कन्या एकया ||' It translates to: ‘One daughter brings as much happiness as ten sons.’ We are empowering women to build a modern India.

"From space to sports, startups to science, education to enterprise, aviation to armed forces, women are propelling India into a new future across various domains. Like you, we have a woman who rose from humble beginnings to become our President," PM Modi said while underscoring the critical role of women in shaping a modern and developed India.

"Two years ago, the Indian Parliament took a historic step, deciding to ensure a 33 percent reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies. This guarantees that future generations will see more women determining the nation's destiny and direction," he added.

"Women leaders are also thriving at the grassroots level in India. Approximately 1.5 million elected women empower local governance institutions. We are in an era of women-led development, a theme we promoted during our G20 presidency," he noted.

Highlighting India as the fastest-growing major economy in the world today, PM Modi stated: "Every sector, region, and society plays a role in this growth story. India's growth is inclusive and centered around people. A recent report from the International Labour Organisation indicates that India's social security and welfare programs cover 950 million individuals—nearly 1 billion people, surpassing the population of most countries!"

"Our vision for inclusive growth transcends our borders. We view our development as a responsibility towards others, with an unwavering priority on the Global South," the Prime Minister added.

"In this spirit, we are deepening our relations with Trinidad & Tobago. Our trade will continue to flourish. We will encourage our businesses to invest more in this country. Our development partnerships will expand, focusing on training, capacity building, and skill development. Health remains a cornerstone of our partnership, with many Indian doctors and healthcare workers serving here with distinction. We are pleased that you have recognized Indian medical standards, ensuring access to high-quality, affordable medicines for all," PM Modi stated while emphasizing the joint partnership in the health sector.

"We also welcome your decision to adopt the UPI digital payment system, marking a significant advancement. UPI has transformed digital payments in India. Thanks to this platform, India now leads the world in real-time digital payments. Today, even mango sellers in India have QR codes! If you try to pay them in cash, they will ask you to use UPI, as they don’t have change!" he added.

"We are also eager to collaborate on other digital innovations. As India develops AI tools for growth and development in the Global South, Trinidad and Tobago will be a priority nation for us," PM Modi affirmed.

"We will share our expertise in agriculture, horticulture, and food processing, with machinery from India supporting your agro-industry. Furthermore, we will organize an artificial limb fitment camp for differently-abled citizens here, as development is also about dignity," he concluded.

"For us, there are no limits to cooperation with you. We will always be guided by your needs and priorities," PM Modi added.

Discussing the immense promise of synergy between the two countries, PM Modi stated: "As a key player in the Caribbean and a bridge to Latin America, Trinidad and Tobago holds significant potential. I am confident that our ties will strengthen our connection with the broader region."

"Building upon the momentum of the second India-CARICOM summit, we are eager to collaborate on initiatives that enhance trade and investment, improve infrastructure and mobility, implement community development projects, and, most importantly, support capacity building, training, and skill development on a grand scale," he said.

"I also envision our partnership within a larger global context. The pace of change in the world is unprecedented, leading to fundamental shifts in politics and power. Free trade is under pressure, and global divisions, disputes, and disparities are increasing," the Prime Minister added.

He also addressed the challenges of climate change, food, health, and energy security.

He reiterated that terrorism remains a pressing threat globally.

While the colonial rules of the past may have ended, their shadows persist in new forms, PM Modi remarked.

He expressed concern over new challenges in space and cybersecurity, stating that artificial intelligence presents both opportunities and risks.

"Old institutions are struggling to deliver peace and progress," he noted.

"Simultaneously, the Global South is rising. They aspire for a new and equitable world order. When the United Nations celebrated its 75th anniversary, there was immense hope in the developing world—a hope that long-overdue reforms would be realized, and their voices would finally be heard. However, this hope has turned into disappointment, and the voice of the developing world remains marginalized. India has consistently sought to bridge this gap," PM Modi asserted.

He stated that for India, MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) serves as the guiding vision for the Global South.

"Whenever India has had the opportunity, it has raised its voice for the Global South," he added.

"During our G20 presidency, we brought the concerns of the Global South to the forefront of global decision-making. While caring for our 1.4 billion citizens during the pandemic, India provided vaccines and medicines to over 150 countries. In times of disaster, we have responded promptly—with aid, relief, and solidarity. Our development partnerships are driven by demand, respect, and are unconditional," he stated.

"It is time for us to collaborate on giving the Global South its rightful place at the table, ensuring climate justice so that the burden does not fall on those who have contributed the least to the climate crisis. We view Trinidad and Tobago as a vital partner in this endeavor," he added.

Though India and Trinidad & Tobago may differ in size and geography, they are closely aligned in values, PM Modi noted, emphasizing that as proud democracies, both nations believe in dialogue, sovereignty, multilateralism, and human dignity.

"In these times of conflict, we must remain committed to these values," he concluded.

"Terrorism is the enemy of humanity. This very Red House has witnessed the scars of terror and the loss of innocent lives. We must unite to deny terrorism any refuge or space. We are grateful to the people and government of this country for standing with us in our battle against terrorism," PM Modi stated.

"Our ancestors fought, sacrificed, and envisioned better lives for future generations. Both India and Trinidad and Tobago have made significant progress on the journey toward the future we promised our people. Yet, there is still much to accomplish—both independently and collectively.

"Each of you, as Members of Parliament, plays a crucial role in shaping that future. From Ayodhya to Arima, from the ghats of the Ganga to the Gulf of Paria, may our bonds continue to deepen, and our aspirations soar higher," he concluded.

PM Modi wrapped up his address by expressing gratitude to all members of Parliament for the honor of speaking in Trinidad & Tobago.