Port of Spain/New Delhi, July 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the highest civilian honor of Trinidad and Tobago, "The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago," in recognition of his efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and acknowledge the historical legacy of the Indian diaspora in the Caribbean nation.
As per agency report, the announcement was made by Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar during a grand reception held for the Indian leader among the vibrant Indian diaspora community. She lauded Modi's historic visit and his key role in deepening the partnership between the two countries.
During the event, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to the people and government of Trinidad and Tobago for the prestigious recognition. He also announced that Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards would now be issued to sixth-generation individuals of Indian origin living in Trinidad and Tobago, further strengthening people-to-people ties.
Recalling the arrival of Indian ancestors to the islands nearly 180 years ago, Modi paid tribute to their resilience, cultural vitality, and contributions to society. He described his visit as an opportunity to honor this enduring legacy and emphasized the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"—the world is one family—while reaffirming India's continued support for Trinidad and Tobago.
Highlighting India’s transformative journey over the last decade, the Prime Minister spoke about progress in infrastructure, digital technology, green energy, space research, innovation, and startups. He noted that over 250 million people had been lifted out of extreme poverty and asserted that India is poised to become one of the world’s top three economies soon.
Modi also underlined India's advancements in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and quantum computing, citing these sectors as future engines of growth. He showcased the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) as a successful model of digital transactions that could also be effectively implemented in Trinidad and Tobago.
The event, attended by nearly 4,000 people, featured captivating cultural performances by artists from organizations such as the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Cooperation. The cultural program celebrated the shared heritage and deep-rooted ties between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Port of Spain on a two-day official visit from July 3 to 4, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Trinidad and Tobago since 1999. Upon arrival, he was warmly received by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar along with members of her cabinet and other dignitaries. A ceremonial guard of honor and traditional cultural performances welcomed him at the airport, and the Indian community also greeted him enthusiastically upon his arrival at the hotel.
