Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended a culturally significant dinner hosted by his Trinidad and Tobago counterpart, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, where food was traditionally served on Sohari leaves—a practice deeply rooted in Indo-Trinidadian heritage. PM Modi acknowledged the emotional and cultural importance of the gesture, calling it a reflection of shared traditions.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “The dinner hosted by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar had food served on a Sohari leaf, which is of great cultural significance to the people of Trinidad & Tobago, especially those with Indian roots.”
During the dinner, PM Modi gifted Persad-Bissessar a replica of the Ram Mandir and holy water from the Sarayu River and the Mahakumbh at Prayagraj, symbolising the spiritual and civilisational links between India and Trinidad & Tobago. “They symbolise the deep cultural and spiritual bonds between our two countries,” he posted.
Earlier in the day, both leaders addressed members of the Indian diaspora at a community event in Port of Spain. PM Modi thanked Persad-Bissessar for her warm welcome and praised her recognition of the enduring friendship between the two nations. “Today’s community programme in Port of Spain was made even more special by the distinguished presence of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar,” he noted.
Persad-Bissessar, in her speech, hailed PM Modi as a “transformational force” who has modernised India and inspired global admiration. “You have empowered over a billion citizens and instilled pride in the hearts of all Indians worldwide. It is your reverence for heritage that has brought us together tonight,” she said.
PM Modi’s visit marks the first bilateral trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Trinidad and Tobago since 1999. He was received at Piarco International Airport with a ceremonial Guard of Honour and a warm welcome from a delegation of 38 ministers and four Members of Parliament. The public also greeted him with traditional music, dance, and displays of Indian and Caribbean cultural unity.
PM Modi shared a video of the welcome on X, captioned: “May the friendship between India-Trinidad & Tobago flourish in the times to come! Highlights from a special welcome in Port of Spain.”
The visit is part of PM Modi’s ongoing five-nation tour from July 2 to July 9, aimed at enhancing cooperation in areas like digital finance, renewable energy, healthcare, and technology.
