PM Modi begins landmark visit to Trinidad and Tobago, home to large Indian diaspora

Upon arrival at Piarco International Airport, Prime Minister Modi was warmly welcomed by his Trinidadian counterpart Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who personally received him alongside members of her Cabinet and several senators

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Port of Spain on Thursday, marking the second stop of his ongoing five-nation tour. During his visit to Trinidad and Tobago, Modi is set to hold high-level talks with the country’s top leadership to further enhance the bilateral relationship.

Upon arrival at Piarco International Airport, Prime Minister Modi was warmly welcomed by his Trinidadian counterpart Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who personally received him alongside members of her Cabinet and several senators. A ceremonial guard of honour was presented, accompanied by cultural performances, including portrayals of mythological Indian characters.

Sharing some glimpses from the welcome at Port of Spain. May the friendship between India and Trinidad & Tobago continue to scale new heights in the times to come! pic.twitter.com/RkAW4pQBKw

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 3, 2025

“Landed in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago. I thank Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, distinguished members of the Cabinet and MPs for the gesture of welcoming me at the airport,” Modi wrote on X. “This visit will further cement bilateral ties between our nations. Looking forward to addressing a community programme in a few hours from now,” he added.

This marks Modi’s first visit to Trinidad and Tobago as Prime Minister and is also the first Indian prime ministerial bilateral visit to the Caribbean nation since 1999.

In another post, Modi expressed hope for deepening ties, saying, “May the friendship between India and Trinidad & Tobago continue to scale new heights in the times to come!” alongside images from the ceremonial welcome.

After arriving at his hotel, Modi was greeted by enthusiastic members of the Indian diaspora, chanting slogans of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Modi, Modi.' Traditional Bhojpuri Chautaal rhythms and an orchestra performance added to the celebratory atmosphere.

“Many people from India made their way to Trinidad & Tobago years ago. Over the years, they distinguished themselves in several fields and are enriching Trinidad & Tobago’s development journey. At the same time, they have retained a connection with India and are also passionate about Indian culture. Grateful to the local Indian community for an unforgettable welcome in Port of Spain,” Modi said on X.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted the special gesture made by the Trinidadian leadership in personally receiving Modi at the airport, describing it as a warm ceremonial welcome.

The Prime Minister’s Office highlighted that the vibrant reception from the Indian community reflected the longstanding cultural bonds and shared heritage between the two countries.

During his visit, Modi is scheduled to meet with President Christine Carla Kangaloo and Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar to deliberate on strengthening bilateral cooperation. He is also expected to address a Joint Session of the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago.

Later in the day, Modi will attend a community programme at the National Cycling Velodrome in Couva, continuing his outreach to the Indian diaspora.

Ahead of his arrival, Modi shared his enthusiasm for deepening relations with a “valued partner in the Caribbean,” emphasizing the deep-rooted cultural links between the two nations.

Modi arrived in Port of Spain from Ghana, where he held extensive discussions with the country’s leadership, culminating in the elevation of India-Ghana ties to a Comprehensive Partnership.

Next, Modi will travel to Argentina (July 4–5) as part of the third leg of his tour, followed by Brazil, where he will participate in the 17th BRICS Summit and undertake a state visit. The final stop on his itinerary will be Namibia.