Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali Monday held “comprehensive discussions” with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a range of issues, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.
Ali is one of two Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders attending the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in India. The convention is a gathering of Indian leaders from across the world and both President Ali and his Surinamese counterpart, Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi will be conferred with the highest award the government gives to Indians overseas.
“The two leaders held comprehensive discussions on a wide range of issues including cooperation in energy, infrastructure development, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, technology and innovation, and defense cooperation.
“Both leaders recalled the 180-year-old historical bonds of friendship between the people of India and Guyana and agreed to deepen them further,” according to the statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.
The Indian government had previously expressed interest in buying all of Guyana’s share of oil from the Stabroek Block, the giant oil reserve operated by ExxonMobil.
In his address to the convention, President Ali spoke of Guyana’s high growth over the past few years and believes the Indian government and private sector can help the country develop key sectors.
“The economic opportunity, growth and potential of Guyana is open to the entire private sector of India.”
Ali said Guyana hopes to become a global leader in energy security, climate security, food security and other key sectors.
According to the statement, Prime Minister Modi expressed his delight and appreciation to President Ali for accepting the invitation to receive the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Award.
It said arising out of the discussions, the two leaders agreed to establish working groups to advance the assessment of Guyana’s needs and the levels of cooperation to ensue.
President Irfaan Ali also invited Prime Minister Modi to visit Guyana later this year.
Before his departure, President Ali will hold bilateral discussions with Indian President Droupadi Murmu and attend the Valedictory Session and Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award Ceremony on Tuesday.
He will also participate in the Global Investors Summit 2023 in Indore on Wednesday.
CMC/
