–with expanding cultural, economic, and educational partnerships

THE diplomatic relations between Guyana and India, established in 1965, have evolved into a multifaceted partnership based on shared values, cultural exchange, and strategic collaboration. This close connection, which began with the establishment of the Commission of India, was further solidified with the founding of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Georgetown in 1972, one of the oldest Indian cultural institutions abroad.

Through its offerings in classical dance, yoga, music, and a range of outreach programmes, the Centre plays an active role in bridging the cultural heritage between the two nations.
The relationship between Guyana and India reached a significant milestone in 1974 when both countries signed a Cultural Agreement which came into effect in 1977. This agreement paved the way for ongoing cultural exchange programmes, starting with the first Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) signed in 1993 during the late President Dr. Cheddi Jagan’s visit to India. Today, the CEP remains a cornerstone of the diplomatic bond, highlighting mutual respect and shared cultural values.

Recently, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, attended a Diwali Mela celebration organised by the Indian High Commission and the Cultural Centre, alongside Surabhi, an Indian cultural group. Reflecting on the robust ties, Minister Anthony remarked, “Today between our two countries, we are seeing it’s not only about cultural ties, but we have economic and other ties as well. And I think if we look at what has been happening over the last couple of years, we have seen our relationship grow in strength. And every year we are seeing this relationship blossoming and getting even better.”
Dr. Amit Telang, the High Commissioner of India to Guyana, spoke at the event, emphasising the shared cultural heritage between the two countries, which celebrates both Diwali and Phagwah. He added, “With this Festival of Light, may the warm and friendly relations between our two countries, India and Guyana, continue to blossom, flourish, and reach new heights in our bilateral relations.”

In addition to cultural ties, the partnership has expanded into economic and developmental cooperation. The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, facilitated by the Indian government, has provided training opportunities for over 700 Guyanese nationals in fields such as Information Technology, Telecom, Renewable Energy, and Finance. In recent years, the number of ITEC slots has increased, with 75 slots allotted for 2022-2023, up from previous years, and additional scholarships granted through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
Two Indian universities, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and Jain “Deemed To Be” University, Bangalore, have been chosen to partner with the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme, enabling thousands of Guyanese students to access higher education through online scholarships.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister of Guyana, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, met with India’s President, Droupadi Murmu, in New Delhi. This meeting highlighted both nations’ commitment to strengthening ties, focusing on energy, cybersecurity, and disaster management. The discussions underscored a comprehensive approach to bilateral engagement, with further collaboration in economic development, energy, and security.
As Guyana and India continue to reinforce their diplomatic relationship, both countries remain committed to fostering mutual growth, cultural enrichment, and strategic co-operation.