India and Guyana took a significant step towards deepening their bilateral ties with the signing of 10 agreements across multiple sectors, including hydrocarbons, digital payments, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and defense. The discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali aimed to bolster cooperation and explore new avenues for collaboration.
During his media statement, PM Modi highlighted Guyana’s growing role in India’s energy security, noting that a long-term partnership blueprint will be developed. He also underscored the importance of his visit, marking the first time in 56 years that an Indian Prime Minister has visited Guyana. Reflecting on his earlier visit to the country as a common citizen, PM Modi emphasized the deep personal bond shared between the two nations.
One of the key agreements includes the potential for deploying India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) digital payment system in Guyana, a move aimed at fostering technological advancements and ease of transactions. Additionally, India is set to further enhance its contribution to Guyana’s defense capabilities through military scholarships and training.
Prime Minister Modi also touched upon India’s contributions to Guyana’s agricultural sector, including providing millet seeds that contributed to regional food security. Both sides agreed to expand cooperation in cultivating crops like rice, sugarcane, and soybeans. The establishment of a Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Guyana, aimed at boosting pharmaceutical exports and providing affordable medicine, was also discussed.
On global issues, PM Modi and President Ali expressed a shared commitment to dialogue and diplomacy for resolving regional and international challenges. Both leaders stressed the need for reform in global institutions and prioritized climate justice.
President Ali, in his remarks, praised PM Modi’s leadership, referring to him as a “champion among leaders” whose governance style has had a significant impact, particularly for developing nations like Guyana.
