India and Guyana have agreed to work together more closely in many important areas. On Wednesday, the two countries signed 10 agreements after talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. These agreements focus on improving cooperation in energy, digital payment systems, defence, and agriculture, strengthening their partnership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Guyana is special because it is the first time in 56 years that an Indian prime minister has travelled there. Modi called it a historic moment and spoke about the strong friendship between India and Guyana. He also said that Guyana is very important for India’s energy needs.

Focus on energy and defence

Modi announced that India and Guyana would work on a long-term partnership in the energy sector. “Guyana will play an important role in India’s energy security, and a blueprint for long-term partnership in the sector will be prepared,” Modi said.

In the defence sector, India has supported Guyana through training and scholarships for its military personnel. Modi also mentioned the recent supply of two Dornier aircraft to Guyana, which demonstrates the deep trust between the two nations.

“Close cooperation in the field of defence is a symbol of our deep mutual trust,” he said.

Expanding digital payments and agriculture

One of the signed agreements allows for the deployment of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) digital payment system in Guyana, which will strengthen the digital economy of the South American country.

In the agriculture sector, Modi highlighted India’s support in providing millet seeds to Guyana, which helped improve the region’s food security. He said both countries will work together on the cultivation of crops like rice, sugarcane, corn, and soya.

“We will also cooperate in increasing the cultivation of rice milling, sugarcane, corn, soya, and other crops,” he added.

India will also assist in building a Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Guyana to increase access to affordable medicines.

Commitment to mutual growth

Prime Minister Modi and President Ali talked about important issues affecting the world. They agreed that problems between countries should be solved through peaceful talks and understanding. Modi also said that global organisations need to be improved to work better. Both leaders highlighted how important it is to ensure fairness in dealing with climate change.

“We also discussed many global and regional issues. India and Guyana agree that all problems should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy,” Modi said.

President Ali praised Modi’s leadership and contribution to the developing world, calling him a “champion among leaders.” He also admired Modi’s governance model, noting its relevance for Guyana.

“You have shown the light to the developing world, and you have created development metrics and a framework that many are adopting in their own country,” Ali said.

Strengthening the partnership

Modi reflected on his personal connection with Guyana, recalling his visit to the country 24 years ago as a common citizen. He expressed happiness about the growing cooperation between India and Guyana.

The agreements signed will pave the way for collaboration in areas like hydrocarbons, digital transformation, pharmaceuticals, culture, and infrastructure development. The visit marks a significant step forward in strengthening the bond between India and Guyana, setting a strong foundation for future cooperation in various sectors.