Prime Minister Modi arrived in Nigeria as the first leg of his three-nation visit. This marks the first official trip by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years, inviting opportunities to strengthen bilateral ties. Following Nigeria, Modi will attend the G20 Summit in Brazil before visiting Guyana, a historic first in over 50 years.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, marking the first leg of his three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana. This visit is notably significant as it marks the first from an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, at the cordial invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Modi was warmly received by Nigeria’s Minister for Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented him with the ‘Key to the City’, symbolizing friendship and respect between the nations. Modi expressed his gratitude through a social media post, emphasizing the importance of expanding the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria. In his departure statement, he articulated anticipation for engaging with the Indian community in Nigeria and underlined his intention to fortify relations based on shared democratic values. Following his engagements in Nigeria, he is scheduled to attend the G20 Summit in Brazil as a member of the Troika, alongside leaders from China and the United States. The trip will conclude with a visit to Guyana, which marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in over five decades.
The visit of Prime Minister Modi to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana signifies India’s increasing engagement with nations in Africa and South America. India has sought to strengthen its diplomatic ties with countries in these regions, recognizing their political and economic potential. The G20 summit in Brazil offers an essential platform for India to assert its interests alongside other major economies, while Modi’s interactions with the Indian diaspora in Nigeria highlight the historic connections between the two nations. This trip emphasizes India’s commitment to building partnerships grounded in mutual cooperation and respect.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria marks a crucial step in enhancing bilateral relations between India and Nigeria, promoting a partnership rooted in shared democratic values. This trip not only facilitates dialogue aimed at expanding strategic ties but also illustrates India’s broader strategy of engaging with emerging economies in Africa and South America. The subsequent participation in the G20 summit further underscores India’s commitment to collaborating with global leaders on pivotal issues.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
