PM Modi Begins Three-Nation Visit, First Stop in Nigeria
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Nigeria, marking his first visit to the West African region and the first by an Indian prime minister in 17 years. His trip is part of a five-day mission that includes visits to Brazil for the G20 Summit and Guyana. This visit aims to deepen bilateral relations and strategic partnerships between India and Nigeria.
On his first-ever trip to the West African region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a five-day diplomatic journey, arriving in Nigeria on Sunday. This significant visit marks the first by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years, facilitated by an invitation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Upon arrival, PM Modi was warmly received in Abuja by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Minister for Federal Capital Territory, who presented him with the “Key to the City” of Abuja, symbolizing the esteem and trust conferred upon him by the Nigerian populace. In a spirited exchange on social media, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended by President Tinubu, reflecting on the prospects of strengthening bilateral ties. He indicated that the discussions would focus on advancing strategic partnerships and enhancing cooperation across critical sectors. Modi is keen to engage with both the Indian diaspora in Nigeria and the Nigerian community, fostering deeper ties founded on shared democratic values and pluralism. After his time in Nigeria, PM Modi is set to proceed to Brazil, where he will participate as a Troika member in the 19th G20 Summit, scheduled to take place on November 18-19 in Rio de Janeiro. Notably, Modi’s engagement will include meetings with prominent global leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden. Following the G20 Summit, PM Modi will conclude his tour with a visit to Guyana from November 19 to 21, which marks the first visit by an Indian prime minister in over half a century, further underscoring India’s commitment to deepening ties with nations across the Americas.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria is part of a broader diplomatic mission that includes stops in Brazil and Guyana. His visit to Nigeria is significant not only because it is his first in the region but also due to the lapse of 17 years since the last visit by an Indian prime minister. The mission is crucial for reinforcing India’s relationships with key nations in Africa and South America, particularly as India seeks to expand its influence in multilateral forums such as the G20. The timing of this visit coincides with PM Modi’s participation in the G20 Summit, reflecting India’s status as a member of the Troika along with Brazil and South Africa. The invitation from Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signifies a desire to cultivate stronger strategic partnerships between the two nations, especially in sectors that benefit from mutual cooperation. This visit is also an opportunity for PM Modi to address the Indian community abroad, reinforcing India’s commitment to its diaspora.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inaugural visit to Nigeria signifies a pivotal step in enhancing India-Nigeria relations. With a strong focus on expanding bilateral cooperation and strategic partnerships, this trip aims to cultivate deeper ties across various sectors. PM Modi’s subsequent participation in the G20 Summit in Brazil and his visit to Guyana further exemplify India’s commitment to strengthening its diplomatic presence in the global arena, particularly in the context of cooperative international relations.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
