India to set up IT Centre of Excellence in Guyana: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced that India will set up its first Information Technology Centre of Excellence in South American in Guyana, also approving of a new Line of Credit to the Caribbean nation.

A release from the Prime Minister's Office shared the discussions that Prime Minister Modi held with visiting dignitaries on the sidelines of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.

"Prime Minister Modi today met the President of Guyana Donald R Ramotar and recalled his interaction with South American leaders on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in 2014, and said India would set up its first IT Centre of Excellence on the South American continent, in Guyana," the release stated.

"India has approved a new Line of Credit of USD 50 million for the East Bank Demerara -East Coast Road Link Project. India has also agreed to concessional credit to supply a passenger ferry to help Guyana overcome transportation problems in the northern region," it added.

Prime Minister Modi also met Mauritius Vice Prime Minister Showkatally Soodhun and conveyed his congratulations to Mauritius Prime Minister Sir Anerood Jugnauth on his recent election victory and renewed an invitation to him to visit India.

Both sides expressed keenness to enhance cooperation in infrastructure projects and matters related to ocean economy.

In a later meeting with South Africa Foreign Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Prime Minister Modi recalled that Thursday was the anniversary of the founding of the African National Congress.

The Prime Minister also recalled the common heritage of the two countries, including struggle against colonial rule. Both sides are keen to deepen cooperation in sectors such as infrastructure and defence manufacturing; and to strengthen partnerships in multilateral fora.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi launched the 'Dandi Kutir', a unique exhibition depicting various stages of Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi's life and work.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has already been addressed by several cabinet ministers, including Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Science and Technology Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan and Minister of State for Overseas Indian Affairs General (Retired) V.K. Singh.

Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari will present the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards on January 9.