Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Trinidad and Tobago. This visit symbolizes his long-standing relationship, which began with the 1999 World Hindu Conference. During this visit, he also received the country's highest honor.
PM Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Trinidad and Tobago on a two-day official visit. This visit is not merely a diplomatic tour but also a symbol of his 25-year-old historical connection, which began when he participated in the World Hindu Conference. During this visit, he also received the country's highest civilian honor.
Old connection linked to the World Hindu Conference in 1999-2000
Before becoming Prime Minister, Narendra Modi visited Trinidad in 1999 as the General Secretary of the BJP. In August 2000, he participated in the World Hindu Conference held in Port-of-Spain. The then Prime Minister of Trinidad, Basdeo Panday, RSS chief K. Sudarshan, and other senior leaders also attended this conference. The theme of the conference was – 'Hinduism and Contemporary World Problems – Developing Technology and Challenges to Mankind'.
Modi emerged as a global Hindu leader
The speech given by Narendra Modi at this conference began to establish his international recognition. Subsequently, in November 2000, he became the organization in-charge General Secretary of the BJP, and in 2001, he became the Chief Minister of Gujarat.
Addressed the Indian diaspora
Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the people of Indian origin residing in Trinidad, said that their struggle is inspiring. He said, "The journey of the Indian community is an example of courage and patience. The conditions in which they came here could have broken anyone, but they endured the struggle with hope and courage."
Prime Minister Modi received Trinidad's highest civilian honor
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been honored with the 'Order of Trinidad and Tobago'. This is the highest civilian honor of Trinidad and Tobago. Modi said that the Indian community residing in Trinidad has played a significant role in the economic, cultural, and spiritual progress of this country. He said, "India and Trinidad are members of the same family. Our friendship goes beyond geography or generations."
Dinner with the Prime Minister of Trinidad
Prime Minister Modi attended a dinner hosted by the Prime Minister of Trinidad, Kamla Persad-Bissessar. On this occasion, Modi presented her with a replica of the Ram Temple of Ayodhya and water from the Saryu River and Prayagraj Kumbh. Prime Minister Modi described it as a symbol of the spiritual and cultural relations between the two countries.
Traditional meal on a leaf
At this dinner, Prime Minister Modi was served a traditional meal on a 'Sohari' leaf. This leaf has special cultural significance in the Indian-origin community of Trinidad and Tobago. Food is served on it during festivals and special occasions. This visit will work to give a new direction to the relations between India and Trinidad. There are possibilities of cooperation between the two countries in areas like trade, culture, education, and health.
