News Americas, New York, NY, November 21, 2024: The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, has been honored with the Order of Excellence by the President of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. The prestigious national award, established in 1970 under the Constitution of the Orders of Guyana, is reserved for only 25 living Guyanese citizens and is rarely awarded to non-citizens.
The honoring ceremony, held earlier this week, was accompanied by a vibrant cultural display showcasing Guyana’s rich heritage. The award recognizes Prime Minister Modi’s outstanding leadership in championing the interests of developing countries on the global stage.
President Ali highlighted Modi’s pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic, when India donated 500,000 vaccines to the Caribbean region despite its domestic challenges. Of these, 80,000 vaccines were sent to Guyana, a gesture Ali credited for saving thousands of lives.
“The greatest trial of any member of the human family is to give too little when it is most needed. And PM Modi fulfilled this test with distinction,” President Ali said during the ceremony.
Ali also highlighted India’s longstanding support for Guyana, including contributions to training, scholarships, military exchanges, concessional loans and cultural cooperation. He praised Modi for promoting technological innovation, digitization and inclusive development that benefits the Global South.
“In every sphere of national development, we can emphasize the physical, institutional and systematic support from the government and people of India. We salute you, Prime Minister Modi, and the people of India. Continue to lead with courage and inspire in this complex global environment,” Ali declared.
The President also asserted that Modi is, and will always remain, a member of the CARICOM family.
In his acceptance speech, Prime Minister Modi expressed deep gratitude to President Ali and the people of Guyana for the honor, noting the close historical and cultural ties between the two nations. He praised Ali’s leadership in strengthening bilateral relations, saying: “Under his leadership we are constantly moving forward in every direction.” Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to enhance cooperation with Guyana and the Caribbean region.
During his three-day state visit to Guyana, Modi participated in discussions aimed at strengthening partnerships and witnessed a vibrant exhibition of Guyana’s diverse cultural heritage. His visit marks an important historical moment in the relations between the two nations.
