Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech on Frdiay at the Parliament of Trinidad & Tobago was met with resounding applause from the Members of Parliament. During his address to the Joint Assembly at the iconic Red House, PM Modi expressed gratitude and said he felt humbled to be the first Indian Prime Minister to address the esteemed House.
Addressing Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, President of the Senate Wade Mark, Speaker of the House Jagdeo Singh, and other parliamentarians, PM Modi highlighted the warm and historic ties between India and Trinidad & Tobago. His speech was interrupted more than 20 times by warm applause from the MPs.
PM Modi said he was deeply honoured to stand before the elected representatives of a proud democracy and a friendly nation. He extended greetings on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians and conveyed warm wishes from the people of Ghana, the country he visited prior to arriving in the Caribbean nation.
“This historic Red House has witnessed the struggles and sacrifices of the people of Trinidad and Tobago for freedom and dignity. Over the past six decades, it has stood strong as you’ve built a just, inclusive, and prosperous democracy,” PM Modi said.
He praised the leadership of President Kangaloo and Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, both of Indian descent, calling them “living symbols of the relationship between our countries, built on shared roots and shared dreams.”
PM Modi reflected on the journey of both nations from colonial rule to thriving democracies: “With courage as our ink and democracy as our pen, we have written our own stories.”
The Prime Minister congratulated the people of Trinidad & Tobago for recently participating in democratic elections and lauded the wisdom and vision of the electorate. He extended best wishes to Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar on securing a second consecutive term.
Referring to the words inscribed on the Speaker’s Chair—”FROM THE PEOPLE OF INDIA TO THE PEOPLE OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO”—PM Modi said the chair was “not just a piece of furniture but a powerful symbol of friendship and trust between our two nations.”
“In India, democracy is not just a political system but a way of life,” he added.
The PM also pointed out that some members of the T&T Parliament trace their ancestry to Bihar, an Indian state known for ancient democratic roots such as Vaishali.
“There is a natural warmth in our connection. Indians are among the most passionate fans of the West Indies cricket team—except, of course, when they play against India!” he joked.
PM Modi recalled the arrival of Indians to Trinidad 180 years ago and how their culture blended with the Caribbean rhythm: “Here, Bhojpuri found harmony with Creole, dal puri met doubles, and tabla met the steel pan.”
Today, people of Indian origin are an integral part of the vibrant diversity of Trinidad & Tobago, he said, contributing to every field—from politics to poetry, cricket to commerce, and calypso to chutney.
Earlier in the day, President Christine Kangaloo conferred PM Modi with the nation’s highest civilian honour, which he accepted with humility on behalf of the Indian people.
Expressing appreciation, PM Modi said: “I am delighted to see so many women Members in this House. Respect for women is deeply rooted in Indian culture.” Quoting a verse from the *Skanda Purana*, he emphasized the value of daughters, adding, “One daughter brings as much joy as ten sons.”
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s push toward gender equality, mentioning the recent 33% reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies. “Around 1.5 million elected women lead local governance institutions. We are in an era of women-led development,” he said.
On economic development, PM Modi noted: “India is the fastest-growing major economy in the world today. Our growth is inclusive and people-centric.” He cited an International Labour Organization report that noted India’s welfare programs cover 950 million people.
He added that India views its development as a responsibility toward others, with a special focus on the Global South.
On bilateral ties, he said India would deepen cooperation with Trinidad & Tobago in trade, development, healthcare, and technology. He welcomed T&T’s adoption of the UPI digital payment system, noting that even mango sellers in India now prefer UPI over cash.
India is also ready to share its expertise in agriculture, food processing, and digital innovation, he added. “Development is about dignity,” he said, announcing an artificial limb fitment camp for differently-abled citizens in Trinidad & Tobago.
“As a key player in the Caribbean and a bridge to Latin America, Trinidad & Tobago has great potential. We look forward to stronger regional cooperation through India-CARICOM ties.”
Speaking on global issues, PM Modi acknowledged the challenges facing the world: climate change, terrorism, food and energy insecurity, and cyber threats. He emphasized the need for reforms in global institutions and more equitable representation for the Global South.
“The voice of the developing world remains on the margins. India has always tried to bridge this gap,” he said. “We need to give the Global South its rightful seat at the right table and ensure climate justice, so that the burden doesn’t fall on those who contributed the least.”
The PM said India’s vision for the Global South is encapsulated in the acronym *MAHASAGAR* — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
Highlighting cooperation during the pandemic, PM Modi reminded the House that India sent vaccines and medicines to over 150 countries and provided humanitarian aid during global disasters.
He reaffirmed India’s respect for T\&T’s support in the fight against terrorism: “Terrorism is the enemy of humanity. This very Red House has itself witnessed the wounds of terror. We must stand united to deny terrorism any shelter or space.”
PM Modi added, “From Ayodhya to Arima, from the ghats of the Ganga to the Gulf of Paria, may our bonds grow ever deeper, and our dreams ever higher.”
He thanked the Parliament of Trinidad & Tobago for bestowing him with the honour to address them.
IANS
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