Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address a special session of the Guyanese Parliament on Thursday, marking another milestone in his diplomatic engagements abroad. This will be the 14th time he has spoken in the legislative chambers of a foreign country, underscoring his active global outreach as India’s leader.
A record-setting diplomatic milestone
Officials noted that Prime Minister Modi holds the distinction of delivering the highest number of speeches in foreign parliaments by an Indian leader. His 14 addresses double the record of his predecessor, Dr Manmohan Singh, who spoke in seven such settings during his tenure.
Among India’s former prime ministers, Indira Gandhi addressed foreign legislatures on four occasions, while Jawaharlal Nehru did so three times. Rajiv Gandhi and Atal Bihari Vajpayee each delivered two parliamentary speeches abroad, and leaders like Morarji Desai and PV Narasimha Rao addressed just one.
Since assuming office in 2014, Modi’s diplomatic visits have spanned continents, highlighting India’s expanding influence and fostering stronger ties with nations around the globe.
Modi’s global parliamentary addresses
Prime Minister Modi’s speeches have taken him to parliaments across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Each address has showcased India’s foreign policy priorities, cultural heritage, and aspirations as a global power.
- United States: Modi has addressed joint sessions of the US Congress twice — once in 2016 and again in 2023, reflecting the growing partnership between the two democracies.
- Australia and Fiji: In 2014, shortly after taking office, Modi addressed the Australian Parliament and the Fijian Parliament, strengthening ties in the Indo-Pacific region.
- United Kingdom: In 2015, Modi spoke at the British Parliament, emphasising the historical ties and the future potential of the India-UK partnership.
- Mauritius and Uganda: The prime minister addressed the National Assembly of Mauritius in 2015 and the Parliament of Uganda in 2018, reaffirming India’s commitment to its long-standing relationships in Africa.
- Asia: Modi’s speeches in Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Afghanistan, and the Maldives have highlighted India’s active engagement with its neighbours and beyond in Asia.
“A testament to India’s growing influence”
An official remarked that Prime Minister Modi’s frequent parliamentary addresses reflect not only his diplomatic dynamism but also India’s enhanced stature in the global order. “His addresses, which transcend continents, are a testament to India’s growing influence on the global stage,” the official said.
These speeches often focus on shared democratic values, mutual development goals, and the pursuit of peace and prosperity. Modi’s addresses are known for weaving together narratives of ancient Indian philosophy and modern global challenges, appealing to diverse audiences.
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Strengthening Ties with Guyana
Modi’s visit to Guyana and his address to its Parliament are expected to bolster bilateral ties between the two nations. Guyana, with its significant Indian diaspora and historical connections to India, has emerged as a key partner in the Caribbean.
In recent years, relations between India and Guyana have deepened, particularly in sectors like energy, healthcare, and education. Modi’s address is anticipated to focus on these areas, alongside broader themes of democracy, sustainability, and international cooperation.
A legacy of diplomacy
As Modi takes the stage in Guyana, his 14th such address will not only mark another diplomatic milestone but also reaffirm India’s commitment to forging enduring partnerships around the world. The speech is expected to resonate with themes of shared history, mutual aspirations, and a vision for a collaborative future.
Prime Minister Modi’s extensive record of parliamentary addresses abroad cements his position as a leader keen on fostering international goodwill and cooperation. By engaging directly with lawmakers in various countries, Modi has sought to elevate India’s voice on critical global issues, from climate change to counter-terrorism.
For Guyana, it represents an opportunity to further strengthen ties with one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. For India, it showcases the country’s active role in shaping global discourse and fostering international partnerships.
