Syllabus: GS2/ International Relations
Context
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian head of state to visit Guyana in over 56 years, marking a historic milestone in India-Guyana relations.
Key Highlights
- The President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana conferred upon PM Modi the highest national award of Guyana, “The Order of Excellence”.
- India and Guyana signed 10 MoUs, covering areas such as hydrocarbons, digital payment systems, pharmaceuticals, and defense cooperation.
| Key MoU signed between India and Guyana – MoU on Cooperation in the Hydrocarbons Sector and MoU for Bilateral Cooperation in the field of Agriculture and Allied Sectors, – MoU for Recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia, – MoU for Supply of medicines to Public Procurement Agencies of CARICOM countries at affordable prices under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), – INDIA STACK MoU on Cooperation in the field of sharing successful digital solutions implemented at population scale for digital transformation, – MoU between NPCI International Payments Ltd and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Guyana for enabling deployment of UPI like system in Guyana, – MoU on Cooperation and collaboration in field of Broadcasting between Prasar Bharti and National Communications Network, Guyana, – MoU between NDI (National Defence Institute, Guyana) & RRU (Rashtriya Raksha University, Gujarat). |
Guyana-India Bilateral Relations
- Establishment of Diplomatic Missions: The Indian Commission was established in Georgetown, Guyana in May 1965, marking the beginning of formal diplomatic relations.
- The mission was upgraded to a High Commission in 1968.
- Cultural Diplomacy: The Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre was set up in 1972 to foster cultural exchange and enhance mutual understanding between the peoples of India and Guyana.
- Development Cooperation: India’s engagement in development assistance to Guyana has been significant, particularly under the Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program.
- Infrastructure Support: India has supported critical infrastructure projects in Guyana, such as; National Cricket Stadium, Solar Traffic Lights, Centre of Excellence in Information Technology (CEIT) etc.
Challenges
- Geopolitical Competition: Guyana’s strategic importance in the oil and gas sector has attracted global powers, especially given the influence of countries like China and the US.
- Infrastructure Deficit: Limited infrastructure in Guyana poses logistical and operational challenges for the rapid expansion of trade and investment.
- Vulnerability to Climate Change: Guyana, as a low-lying coastal state, is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather, potentially impacting developmental cooperation projects.
Way Ahead
- Deepening Energy Collaboration: India should establish long-term agreements for oil imports and explore joint ventures in Guyana’s hydrocarbon sector.
- Enhancing Regional Outreach: Strengthening Guyana’s role as a gateway for India’s engagement with CARICOM countries can help India expand its influence in Latin America and the Caribbean.
- Institutional Partnerships: Enhancing collaboration in education, health, and digital governance will foster sustainable and inclusive growth in Guyana while showcasing India as a reliable partner.
| Guyana – Location: Guyana, is located in the northeastern corner of South America. – Bordering Nations: Guyana is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, by Suriname (along the Courantyne River) to the east, by Brazil to the south and southwest, and by Venezuela to the west. – Major rivers: Courantyne, Berbice, Demerara, and Essequibo. – Oil reserves: Guyana has gained significant salience in the oil & gas sector with the new discoveries of 11.2 billion barrels of oil equivalent, amounts to 18% of total global Oil & Gas discoveries.  |
Source: PIB
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