Trinidad and Tobago President praises India’s global contributions at PBD convention in Odisha's Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, January 9: Christine Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, on Thursday, praised India's contributions towards global development, highlighting the country’s historical innovations and ties with Trinidad and Tobago. Her remarks were made during a virtual address at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Bhubaneswar.

Kangaloo began her speech by reflecting on India’s rich history of scientific and cultural achievements, noting that India has been a source of groundbreaking ideas for millennia. "India’s contributions to the world are remarkable,"

she said, listing notable advancements such as the establishment of the ancient Takshila University around 700 BC, the invention of zero, and the development of algebra, trigonometry, and calculus over 6,000 years ago. She also acknowledged India's pioneering role in the arts of navigation, the origin of chess, and the decimal system. “India’s very own Shushruta is widely recognized as the father of surgery,” Kangaloo added.

The Trinidad and Tobago President also emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two nations, dating back to 1845, when the first ship carrying Indian indentured laborers arrived in Trinidad. “India was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with us following our independence in 1962, but our connections go far beyond that,” she noted, mentioning that over 143,000 Indians had immigrated to Trinidad and Tobago by 1917.

The President's comments were part of the ongoing celebrations of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, which serves as a platform to celebrate the contributions of the Indian diaspora and strengthen ties between India and the world.

In a separate address, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s rapid growth in the 21st century, stressing the country's rising position as a global talent hub. “India is progressing at an incredible speed and scale. For decades to come, India will remain the world’s youngest and most skilled workforce, capable of meeting the global demand for skilled talent,” he said.

PM Modi also reiterated India’s commitment to supporting its diaspora, emphasizing that the Indian government views it as a responsibility to assist Indians abroad during times of crisis. “Your safety and welfare are our top priority,” Modi said. “This is a fundamental guiding principle of India’s foreign policy.”

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who also addressed the event, highlighted the state’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing Odisha’s contributions to India's classical arts, such as Odissi dance and Pattachitra paintings. He described Odisha as a vibrant hub of diverse traditions and cultural excellence.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, organized by the Government of India in partnership with the State Government of Odisha, is a significant event for fostering stronger connections with the Indian diaspora. The 18th edition of the convention, held from January 8 to 10, is centered around the theme "Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).