On Friday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged ongoing support for trade and investment in Trinidad and Tobago during his speech before the country’s parliament.
Now is the moment for us to join forces and ensure the Global South receives its due place at the decision-making level," Modi stated. "Our collaboration with you knows no bounds.
Modi’s two-day journey marked his inaugural official tour of the culturally rich, dual-island Caribbean nation, which has deep historical connections with India.
The visit was expected to boost investment in energy, health, security and other sectors.
Modi stated during his address that there was significant opportunity for collaboration between India and Trinidad and Tobago, spanning areas such as the development of advanced AI technologies and agricultural initiatives.
He stated that commerce between the two nations would continue expanding, placing emphasis on prioritizing people-centered growth.
The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, revealed several investment commitments from Modi aimed at enhancing healthcare, energy, and technology sectors, and expressed her gratitude toward him.
“This trip goes beyond mere diplomatic engagement—it signifies a fresh beginning,” she stated. “From this point forward, India and Trinidad and Tobago will collaborate as strategic allies.”
She mentioned that both nations were collaborating to update their bilateral trade and investment agreements, with plans for Trinidad and Tobago to increase its export activities toward India.
Modi emphasized the enduring ties between the two countries during his address, describing them as a “strong emblem” of unity and confidence shared by both nations.
Over 35% of this Caribbean nation’s population of 1.4 million people consists of individuals of East Indian descent, whose ancestors were contracted laborers taken from India during the time of European colonization.
Many Hindus across the nation welcomed Modi warmly; however, certain members of Trinidad and Tobago's Muslim community expressed strong criticism toward the leader.
The Anjuman Sunnat-ul-Jamaat Association (ASJA) announced on Wednesday its plan to send letters to both the Prime Minister’s Office and the Indian High Commission, voicing concerns following Modi being awarded the esteemed Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
In a press release, the ASJA expressed having "serious and principle-based concerns" regarding the state's endorsement of an individual whom they argue has fueled religious hostility in India and singled out the Muslim community.
"We cannot ignore Mr Modi’s political legacy and its ramifications for Muslim communities globally," the organisation said.
ASJA referenced the removal of Kashmir’s autonomous status as well as the 2002 Gujarat riots, where over 1,000 individuals—mainly Muslims—lost their lives.
Approximately 18% of Trinidad and Tobago's people follow Hinduism, compared to about 5% who practice Islam.
Our countries both emerged from the aftermath of colonial domination to shape our own destinies," Modi stated. "Our common history and deep-rooted respect for one another remain central to strengthening our alliance.