Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Saturday for a five-day tour, focusing on the G20 Summit in Brazil. The visit holds significant diplomatic importance, as India, which hosted last year's summit, is part of the G20 troika alongside Brazil and South Africa. In addition to Brazil, PM Modi will visit Nigeria and Guyana, engaging in high-level bilateral and multilateral meetings throughout the trip.
The trip marks a historic moment, as it will be the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years and to Guyana in more than five decades. PM Modi will begin his journey in Nigeria, spending two days (November 16-17) there.
At the invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, PM Modi expressed his excitement, stating, "This will be my first visit to Nigeria, a close partner in the West African region. I look forward to building on our strategic partnership rooted in democracy and pluralism. I am also eager to meet the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have warmly welcomed me."
Following his time in Nigeria, PM Modi will head to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to attend the 19th G20 Summit on November 18-19, hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. PM Modi emphasized the significance of India's role in the G20 troika, adding, "India's presidency last year elevated the G20 to a people's platform, highlighting the priorities of the Global South. Brazil is continuing this legacy, and I look forward to meaningful discussions centered around our vision of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future'."
PM Modi’s final stop will be Guyana, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 1968. During his stay, he will hold bilateral talks, meet with the Indian diaspora, and address the Guyanese Parliament. "We will discuss giving strategic direction to our unique relationship, which is based on shared heritage and values," he stated. He also mentioned paying respects to one of the oldest Indian diaspora communities, who migrated to the country over 185 years ago.
Additionally, PM Modi will participate in the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit, engaging with Caribbean partner countries. "This summit will help renew our historical ties and expand our cooperation into new areas," he said.