PM Modi embarks on 3 nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil, Guyana

New Delhi, Nov 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set off on a five-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana, marking a diplomatic outreach to three diverse regions. Speaking ahead of his departure, Modi outlined the key objectives of his trip, highlighting the importance of strengthening bilateral ties, advocating for the Global South, and engaging with the Indian diaspora.

Nigeria

The first leg of the tour takes the Prime Minister to Nigeria, where he will meet President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “This will be my first visit to Nigeria, a close partner in the West African region. It is an opportunity to build upon our strategic partnership, which is based on shared beliefs in democracy and pluralism,” Modi said before taking off on Friday. Modi expressed his eagerness to meet the Indian community in Nigeria, noting the warm messages he had received from Indian-origin residents.

Modi’s visit to Nigeria marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years and aims to rejuvenate the long-standing relationship between the two nations. With over $27 billion invested by Indian companies in sectors like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and ICT, the focus will be on enhancing economic cooperation and exploring new areas of mutual interest.

Brazil

The centrepiece of Modi’s visit will be his attendance at the G20 Summit in Brazil. “In Brazil, I will attend the 19th G20 Summit as a Troika member. Last year, India’s successful presidency elevated the G20 to a ‘people’s G20,’ mainstreaming the priorities of the Global South. I look forward to meaningful discussions aligned with our vision of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future,’” Modi stated.

The summit, hosted by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, is expected to be a key moment in global diplomacy, where Modi will build on the outcomes of last year’s India’s G20 Presidency and the Voice of the Global South Summits. As part of the G20 Troika, India, alongside Brazil and South Africa, has played a pivotal role in shaping the agenda, focusing on issues such as equitable access to finance, sustainable infrastructure, and climate action.

Guyana

Modi’s final stop will be in Guyana, making him the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the South American nation in over 50 years.

“My visit to Guyana, at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, will be the first in decades. We will discuss strategic directions for our unique relationship, which is rooted in shared heritage, culture, and values,” Modi said. He also emphasised his intent to connect with the Indian diaspora, paying respects to those who migrated over 185 years ago.

During his stay in Georgetown, Modi will hold talks with President Ali, address the Guyanese Parliament, and participate in the Second India-CARICOM Summit. “The summit will enable us to renew historical ties and expand our cooperation into new domains,” Modi said, underscoring the strong bond between India and the Caribbean nations.

Strengthening India’s Global South Advocacy

Modi’s three-nation tour highlights India’s ongoing commitment to championing the concerns of the Global South. As he prepares to engage with leaders from Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, the trip signals a strategic effort to deepen India’s influence and partnerships beyond traditional allies. “We have stood together through thick and thin,” Modi said, reflecting on India’s enduring ties with CARICOM nations and the broader Global South.

The Prime Minister’s visit aims to reinforce India’s role as a key advocate for developing nations, focusing on areas like digital transformation, renewable energy, and climate resilience. By prioritising strategic partnerships and bilateral cooperation, Modi seeks to amplify the voices of emerging economies and contribute to a multipolar world order.