Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s landmark two-day visit to Trinidad and Tobago marked a new chapter in India’s diplomatic outreach to the Caribbean.
The visit, held on July 3–4, witnessed high-level discussions, the signing of key agreements, and a slew of significant announcements aimed at deepening cooperation between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by his counterpart, Prime Minister H.E. Mrs. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, at Red House in Port of Spain.
In a gesture of goodwill, Prime Minister Modi congratulated her on assuming office for a second term following her party’s recent electoral victory. He also expressed gratitude for the exceptional hospitality extended to him and his delegation.
Expanding Bilateral Cooperation
During their meeting, the two leaders engaged in wide-ranging discussions covering key areas of mutual interest. These included agriculture, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, digital public infrastructure (DPI) such as the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), capacity building, cultural exchanges, sports, and people-to-people contacts.
Prime Minister Bissessar emphasized that the visit would provide fresh impetus to the long-standing ties between India and Trinidad & Tobago.
Development cooperation remains a vital component of the relationship. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s commitment to supporting the development goals of Trinidad and Tobago through both capacity-building initiatives and tangible assistance.
Addressing Global Challenges
The two leaders also exchanged perspectives on pressing regional and global concerns. Both leaders underscored the need for greater cooperation to address contemporary global challenges including climate change, disaster management, and cyber security.
Prime Minister Modi appreciated the solidarity shown by the Government of Trinidad & Tobago following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed innocent lives.
Both sides reaffirmed their united stance against terrorism in all its forms and pledged to work together toward peace and security.
Further, they agreed on enhancing collaboration among countries of the Global South and reinforcing the India-CARICOM partnership, underscoring shared values and development priorities.
Signing of Strategic MoUs
The meeting culminated in the exchange of six significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), expanding cooperation in various sectors:
- MoU on Indian Pharmacopoeia – paving the way for collaboration in pharmaceutical standards.
- Agreement on Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) – facilitating Indian grant assistance for local development projects.
- Cultural Exchange Programme (2025-2028) – promoting shared heritage and cultural ties.
- MoU on Cooperation in Sports – focusing on mutual support in training, infrastructure, and events.
- MoU on Diplomatic Training – enhancing capacity building and knowledge sharing among diplomatic officials.
- MoU to Re-establish ICCR Chairs – bringing back two academic chairs for Hindi and Indian Studies at the University of the West Indies, Trinidad & Tobago.
Announcements to Strengthen Ties
Prime Minister Modi also unveiled several impactful initiatives aimed at boosting ties and enhancing development support:
- Extension of OCI Facility: The eligibility for the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card has now been extended to the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad & Tobago, up from the previous fourth generation limit.
- Educational Support: India will gift 2,000 laptops to school students in Trinidad & Tobago, enhancing digital access and education.
- Agro-Processing Support: Machinery worth USD 1 million was formally handed over to NAMDEVCO (National Agricultural Marketing and Development Corporation).
- Healthcare Aid: India will provide 20 hemodialysis units and two sea ambulances to support T&T’s health infrastructure.
- Limb Fitment Camp: An artificial limb fitment camp will be organized for 800 beneficiaries over a 50-day period.
- ‘Heal in India’ Initiative: Citizens of Trinidad & Tobago will be offered specialized medical treatments in India under this flagship healthcare initiative.
- Green Energy Push: Rooftop solar panels will be installed at the headquarters of T&T’s Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs to support clean energy goals.
- Promotion of Culture and Heritage: The Geeta Mahotsav will be celebrated in Port of Spain’s Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Cooperation, synchronized with festivities in India.
- Religious and Cultural Training: Indian institutions will provide training for Pandits from Trinidad & Tobago and the Caribbean region.
Global Cooperation Initiatives
In a major development, Trinidad and Tobago announced its decision to join two of India’s international initiatives – the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA).
These partnerships align with both countries’ shared commitment to sustainability and energy transition.
Looking Ahead
Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to visit India, which she accepted, reflecting the continued warmth in bilateral relations.
This historic visit underscored India’s increasing engagement with the Caribbean region and affirmed the strong people-to-people connections between the nations, rooted in a shared cultural legacy and democratic values.
With the agreements and announcements made during this trip, India and Trinidad & Tobago are poised to deepen their strategic and development partnership in the years to come.
