- PM Narendra Modi becomes the first foreign leader to receive Trinidad and Tobago’s highest civilian award.
- The honour recognizes his global leadership and diaspora engagement.
- Modi’s visit strengthens 180-year-old ties between India and the Caribbean nation.
During his landmark visit to Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, marking a historic moment as the first foreign leader to receive this prestigious honour.
Modi’s two-day Caribbean stop is part of a larger diplomatic tour focused on deepening bilateral relations and reaffirming India’s commitment to the Global South.
Trinidad & Tobago Honours PM Modi in Landmark Diplomatic Visit
Prime Minister Modi’s visit comes after a 25-year gap since any Indian leader last visited the Caribbean island nation. His presence marks a renewed commitment to strengthening India-Caribbean ties, especially with nations that host large Indian-origin populations. The visit was punctuated by cultural exchanges and diplomatic dialogues that explored trade, technology, and climate resilience.
The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is not just symbolic—it signals a deep appreciation for India’s role in international cooperation, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Modi’s leadership during the global health emergency, including India’s vaccine diplomacy through “Vaccine Maitri”, was highlighted as a key factor in the recognition.
Trinidad and Tobago’s President Christine Carla Kangaloo personally presented the award during a formal ceremony attended by top government officials, including Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. The event underscored the diplomatic warmth and mutual respect between the two nations, with tributes to the shared cultural heritage stemming from Indian migration to the Caribbean in the 19th century.
Addressing the Parliament, PM Modi made a profound cultural connection, noting how Indians in Trinidad and Tobago have preserved their traditions while embracing Caribbean life. From Chutney music to cricket, he celebrated the Indian diaspora’s influence on local identity and reaffirmed India’s support for their continued progress.
PM Modi’s visit and the prestigious honour represent more than a diplomatic achievement—they reflect a shared history, cultural kinship, and a future of strengthened cooperation.
“We are not makers of history. We are made by history.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
