• On November 20, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a historic visit to Guyana, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 56 years.
  • The last Indian leader to visit was Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1968.

BILATERAL TALKS & AGREEMENTS

During his visit, PM Modi held discussions with President Mohamed Irfaan Ali of Guyana, leading to the signing of 10 important agreements between the two nations. These agreements cover a wide range of sectors:
  • Energy Security: PM Modi emphasized Guyana's growing role in India's energy security. A long-term blueprint for energy cooperation is set to be developed.
  • Digital Payments: One of the key agreements includes the deployment of India's UPI in Guyana, which will facilitate seamless digital transactions between us.
  • Defense Cooperation: India will continue supporting Guyana’s defense sector, offering military training, scholarships, and equipment. Notably, India has already supplied two Dornier aircraft to Guyana this year.
  • Agriculture and Food Security: India has contributed to Guyana’s food security by providing millet seeds in 2023. Additionally, further cooperation in the agricultural sector is on the agenda.
  • Healthcare: India will establish a Jan Ausadhi Kendra in Guyana to provide affordable medicines and healthcare solutions.
AWARDS & HONOURS In recognition of his contributions,

PM Modi received prestigious awards from Guyana and Dominica:

  1. Guyana: The Order of Excellence, conferred by President Irfaan Ali, was awarded to PM Modi for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, global service, and efforts in strengthening bilateral relations.
    1. PM Modi is only the 4th foreign leader to receive this honor.
  2. Dominica: The Dominica Award of Honour was presented by President Sylvanie Burton, recognizing India's support during the COVID-19 crisis, including the supply of 70,000 AstraZeneca vaccines.
Future Recognition
  • PM Modi is set to receive additional honors, with Barbados planning to confer its highest national award on him.
  • This would bring his total number of international honors to 19.
GUYANA INDIA BILATERAL RELATIONS India and Guyana share a strong diplomatic history, marked by significant milestones:
  • Diplomatic Missions: India's diplomatic presence in Guyana began with the establishment of the Indian Commission in Georgetown in May 1965, which was upgraded to a High Commission in 1968.
  • Cultural Diplomacy: The Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), established in 1972, has played a key role in fostering cultural ties between India and Guyana.
  • Infrastructure Support: India has contributed to several major infrastructure projects in Guyana, including the National Cricket Stadium, solar traffic lights, and the Centre of Excellence in Information Technology (CEIT).

ABOUT GUYANA

India-Guyana Relations explained for UPSC
  • Location: Guyana is located in the northeastern part of South America.
  • Borders: It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Suriname to the east, Brazil to the south, and Venezuela to the west.
  • Major Rivers: Some of the country’s most significant rivers include the Courantyne, Berbice, Demerara, and Essequibo.
  • Oil Reserves: Guyana has emerged as a significant player in the global oil market with recent discoveries of over 11.2 billion barrels of oil equivalent, making up about 18% of global oil and gas discoveries.