PM Modi embarks on 3-nation tour with focus on G20, strengthening bilateral ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on a six-day, three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana from November 16-21. The trip would include his participation in the G20 Summit in Brazil.
Speaking before his departure, Modi highlighted India’s successful G20 presidency last year, which helped prioritise the concerns of the ‘Global South’. He noted Brazil, this year’s G20 host, has built upon India’s legacy and expressed optimism for meaningful discussions in line with the vision of “one earth, one family, one future.” He also mentioned he would seize the opportunity to hold bilateral talks with several world leaders.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri added that the G20 summit in Brazil would offer valuable opportunities for bilateral meetings on the sidelines, with leaders expected to discuss a variety of key issues.
At the New Delhi summit in 2023, the African Union became a full member of the G20. In addition to the G20 member countries, Brazil has invited 18 guest countries — five each from Africa, Latin America and Asia, along with three from Europe. Fifteen international organisations would also attend.
Misri commented on the challenges of reaching consensus on geopolitical issues at the G20, citing the complexities surrounding conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East. However, he expressed confidence that a strong, consolidated declaration would be reached, despite these challenges. He also confirmed the ongoing ‘Sherpa meetings’ have excluded geopolitical language from the official documents but that such issues would still be discussed during the summit.
Modi’s first stop would be Nigeria, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 17 years. India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007, with growing collaboration in the fields of energy, defence and economic development. Over 200 Indian companies have invested more than USD 27 billion in various sectors in Nigeria. Modi is also looking forward to addressing the Indian community in Nigeria, who have warmly welcomed him in Hindi.
The final leg of Modi's trip would take him to Guyana, where he would become the first Indian Prime Minister to visit since 1968. During his visit, Modi would pay tribute to the Indian diaspora, who have been in Guyana for over 185 years. Earlier in 2023, Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali visited India and was awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. In Georgetown, Modi would meet with President Ali, address Guyana’s Parliament and participate in the Second CARICOM-India Summit, as well as meet with the Indian community.
This diplomatic tour underscores India’s growing global presence and its strong ties with these key nations.
