Culture, cuisine and cricket deeply connect India and Guyana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said, asserting that the commonalities provide a strong foundation for friendship between the two nations.

Addressing a community programme in Guyana on Thursday, the prime minister praised the Indo-Guyanese community and their contribution to the development of the Caribbean nation.

He stressed that the shared values between the two nations provide a strong foundation for their friendship.

“Three things, in particular, connect India and Guyana deeply. Culture, cuisine and cricket,” he said.

PM Modi said both countries are proud of their rich and diverse culture.

“We see diversity as something to be celebrated, not just accommodated. Our countries are showing how cultural diversity is our strength,” he said.

Noting that Indians traditionally carry food wherever they go, the prime minister highlighted that the Indo-Guyanese community has a unique food tradition that blends both Indian and Guyanese elements.

The love for cricket also binds our nations strongly. It is not just a sport. It is a way of life, deeply embedded in our national identity,” he said.

“Many of our cricket fans enjoyed the T-20 World Cup that you hosted this year. Your cheers for the ‘Team in Blue’ at their match in Guyana could be heard even back home in India!” he added.

Saluting the spirit of the Indo-Guyanese community, he said, “You have fought for freedom and democracy. You have worked to make Guyana one of the fastest-growing economies.” “From humble beginnings, you have risen to the top,” he added.