India and Trinidad & Tobago Usher in a New Era of Bilateral Ties During PM Modi's Historic Visit

In a landmark visit marking a pivotal moment in the history of India-Trinidad and Tobago relations, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid an official visit to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago from July 3 to 4, 2025, at the invitation of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. This was the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 26 years and carried deep symbolic weight as it coincided with the 180th anniversary of the arrival of Indian immigrants to the island nation.

A Visit Steeped in Heritage and Diplomacy

The timing of the visit underscored the shared history and enduring cultural connections between the two nations. It celebrated over a century and a half of civilizational ties, with Prime Minister Modi being conferred the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the country's highest national honour, for his global and domestic leadership.

Prime Minister Modi also congratulated Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar on her recent electoral victory and commended her leadership in nurturing the bilateral relationship.

Expanding the Partnership: From Digital Innovation to Agriculture

Both leaders held extensive discussions covering bilateral, regional, and global issues. They committed to strengthening cooperation across diverse sectors-healthcare, digital technology, education, agriculture, culture, and economic development.

A key highlight was Trinidad and Tobago becoming the first Caribbean nation to adopt India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI). The leaders also agreed to explore broader collaboration through India Stack solutions such as DigiLocker and e-Sign, showcasing India's growing digital influence globally.

In support of Trinidad and Tobago's education reform, India gifted 2,000 laptops, while encouraging students to pursue higher education in India under government scholarship programs.

Tangible Outcomes and Agreements

Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed in areas including pharmaceuticals, cultural exchange, diplomatic training, and sports cooperation. India's support extended to the donation of agro-machinery worth $1 million, aimed at enhancing food processing and storage capabilities in Trinidad and Tobago.

In healthcare, India's contribution was notable, with the donation of 20 haemodialysis units, two sea ambulances, and plans to host a prosthetic limb fitment camp for 800 individuals. Trinidad and Tobago also officially recognized Indian Pharmacopoeia, paving the way for easier access to affordable Indian generic medicines.

Culture, Diaspora, and Shared Identity

Acknowledging the Indian diaspora's significance, Prime Minister Modi announced the issuance of Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards up to the sixth generation of descendants from Trinidad and Tobago. A renewed Programme of Cultural Exchange (2025-2028) was signed, including plans to send Trinidadian artists to India.

India will also provide training to a cohort of Trinidadian Hindu Pundits, who will participate in the 'Geeta Mahotsav', both in India and Trinidad and Tobago. PM Modi lauded efforts to promote Hindi and Yoga in the Caribbean nation and pledged to send Yoga instructors and support the integration of Yoga into school curricula.

Development, Sustainability, and the Global South

In climate and sustainability cooperation, Trinidad and Tobago joined India-led global initiatives such as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and the Global Biofuel Alliance. PM Modi also announced a grant for a rooftop solar PV system for the Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs, aligning with his 'Mission LiFE' for sustainable living.

Trinidad and Tobago welcomed the Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) MoU to implement timely community-level development with Indian assistance. Both sides also reaffirmed cooperation in disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure.

Strengthening Multilateral Collaboration

The two leaders discussed global governance reform and pledged mutual support at the United Nations. India will support Trinidad and Tobago's bid for a non-permanent UNSC seat (2027-28), while Trinidad and Tobago will back India's candidature for 2028-29. Importantly, the Caribbean nation reaffirmed its full support for India's permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council.

A Shared Vision for the Future

The visit also witnessed the revival of the India-Trinidad and Tobago Parliamentary Friendship Group, with plans for training of parliamentarians and exchange of delegations. In the sporting domain, both leaders emphasized cricket ties and signed an MoU for sports cooperation, including the training of young women cricketers from Trinidad and Tobago in India.

As the visit concluded, both Prime Ministers extended mutual invitations for future visits, cementing a new chapter in India-Trinidad and Tobago relations. The highly productive visit not only strengthened traditional ties but also laid the foundation for a modern, inclusive, and forward-looking partnership, reflecting a shared vision for progress, peace, and prosperity.

This article is based on the Joint Statement issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India, dated July 5, 2025.