Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Honored with Trinidad and Tobago’s Highest Civilian Award

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – July 4, 2025: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made history as the first Indian leader to visit Trinidad and Tobago in 25 years, receiving a warm welcome and the Caribbean nation’s highest civilian honor, ‘The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago,’ during a ceremonial event on Friday.

The award, presented by President Christine Kangaloo at the President’s House in Port of Spain, recognized Modi’s global leadership, his efforts in strengthening ties with the Indian diaspora, and India’s humanitarian contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I humbly accept this honor on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” Modi said, describing it as a symbol of the deep friendship between India and Trinidad and Tobago.

Modi’s two-day visit, from July 3 to 4, marked the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Caribbean nation since 1999. It is part of a five-nation tour that includes Ghana, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia, aimed at boosting India’s ties with the Global South.

On Friday, Modi addressed a Joint Assembly of Trinidad and Tobago’s Parliament, becoming the first Indian leader to do so. Speaking at the iconic Red House, he praised the nation’s vibrant democracy and its cultural ties with India, rooted in the arrival of Indian indentured laborers 180 years ago. “The Indian community’s journey here is one of courage and resilience,” he said, noting that nearly 50% of Trinidad and Tobago’s population is of Indian descent.

Modi also highlighted shared interests, including cricket, which drew laughter when he jokingly remarked, “We cheer for the West Indies cricket team, except when they play India!” He emphasized cooperation in areas like digital finance, renewable energy, health, and technology to strengthen ties between the two nations.

The visit began with a grand welcome at Piarco International Airport, where Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, dressed in traditional Indian attire, greeted Modi alongside her cabinet and parliamentarians. A vibrant cultural performance, blending Indian and Caribbean traditions, showcased the deep historical and cultural connections. Modi also attended a community event in Port of Spain, engaging with the Indian diaspora and praising their contributions to Trinidad and Tobago’s development.

Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar lauded Modi’s leadership, particularly India’s Vaccine Maitri initiative, which provided critical support during the pandemic. She described the visit as a “profound honor” and a milestone in the two countries’ relationship.

Modi’s itinerary included a courtesy call on President Kangaloo and bilateral talks with Persad-Bissessar to explore new opportunities in trade, energy, and cultural exchange. The visit is expected to deepen India’s partnership with Trinidad and Tobago, a key ally in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Global South.

As Modi departed for the next leg of his tour, he expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality, saying, “May the friendship between India and Trinidad and Tobago flourish in the times to come.