'We cheer for West Indies cricket team except when ... ': PM Modi's cricket banter in Trindad & Tobago Parliament draws laugh - video

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi charmed lawmakers in Trinidad and Tobago with a mix of heartfelt diplomacy and light-hearted cricket banter during his address to the joint sitting of the country’s Parliament on Friday.

Highlighting the shared love for the game, PM Modi joked, “I must say, Indians are among the most passionate fans of the West Indies cricket team. We cheer for them with all our heart, except when they are playing against India.” His remark sparked laughter across the chamber.

PM Modi, on his first bilateral visit to the Caribbean nation as Prime Minister, was conferred with The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, becoming the first foreign leader to receive the country’s highest civilian honour.

Accepting the award, he said, “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to you, your government, and the people for honouring me with the highest national award, the ‘Order of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago’.

I accept this honour on behalf of 140 crore Indians as a shared pride.”During his address, PM Modi spoke of the enduring bond between the nations, forged over 180 years ago when the first Indian immigrants arrived in Trinidad.

“The Indian beats blended beautifully with the Caribbean rhythm... From politics to poetry, cricket to commerce – they contribute to every field,” he said.He also praised the country’s representation of women in Parliament, saying, “I'm delighted to see so many women members in this house. Respect for women is deeply rooted in Indian culture. One of our important holy texts, the Skanda Purana, says that one daughter brings as much happiness as ten sons.

From space to sports, startups to science, education to enterprise, aviation to armed forces – they are leading India to a new future in various domains.

”President Christine Kangaloo, who presented PM Modi with the honour at a ceremony at the President’s House, called his kindness and generosity “legendary,” particularly recalling India’s vaccine donation during the COVID-19 crisis. “That act of kindness only further strengthened the longstanding relationship between the governments and people of both our countries,” she said.PM Modi was welcomed with traditional performances and enthusiastic cheers from the Indian diaspora upon arrival. His visit, part of a five-nation tour, also includes stops in Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia, culminating with the BRICS Summit in Brazil from July 5–8.