Prime Minister Narendra Modi created history on Wednesday as he became the first Indian Prime Minister in more than three decades to make a visit to Ghana. Arriving in Accra, Modi was greeted with traditional singing of “Hare Rama Hare Krishna” and a ceremonial guard of honour led by President John Dramani Mahama.
Modi had delegation-level discussions with President Mahama at Jubilee House, during which both sides deliberated on strategic bilateral cooperation.
Modi Awarded Ghana’s Top Civilian Honour
In a unique appreciation of India’s increasing contribution to the development of Ghana, President Mahama awarded PM Modi The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana — Ghana’s topmost civilian honour. This ceremonial act highlighted the warmth and affection between the two countries.
Quotes by PM Modi Emphasise Growing Partnership
The visit was characterized by strong statements from Prime Minister Modi, indicating both political cooperation and common global concerns.
“We were all of the view that terrorism is the enemy of humanity. We appreciate Ghana’s cooperation in the war against terrorism. We have agreed to intensify our cooperation in counter-terrorism. Our perspectives on the UN reforms are like-minded,” he told after talks.
We feel that this is not the moment for a war. Issues should be tackled through dialogue and diplomacy,” Modi stated.
He went on to say, “In defence and security, we will proceed with the mantra of ‘Security through Solidarity’.”
PM Modi also stressed India’s increasing commitment to Ghana’s development and said, “India is not merely a partner but a co-traveller in Ghana’s nation-building process.
Trade, UPI and Investment Get a Boost
In his speech, PM Modi pointed towards India’s economic relations with Ghana and said, “Our bilateral trade has gone beyond USD 3 billion. Indian businesses have invested 2 billion dollars in about 900 ventures. We have planned to double our trade in the next 5 years. In the FinTech space, Bharat UPI will partner with Ghana to share the digital payments experience.”
He also hailed the African Union’s emergence as a new global player: “It is a matter of pride for India that under our G20 presidency, the African Union received permanent membership of the G20.”
Four Significant MoUs Signed to Enhance Cooperation
India and Ghana signed four significant agreements on Wednesday, to enhance cooperation in culture, medicine, commerce, and governance.
Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP): This MoU facilitates cooperation in art, music, dance, literature, and heritage between the two countries.
BIS-GSA MoU: MoU between India’s Bureau of Indian Standards and Ghana Standards Authority for improving standardisation, certification, and quality assurance.
Traditional Medicine Collaboration: Agreed between Ghana’s Institute of Traditional & Alternative Medicine and India’s Institute of Teaching & Research in Ayurveda, this agreement will promote education, training, and collaborative research in alternative medicine.
Joint Commission Meeting MoU: This will institutionalize top-level discussions and pave the way for periodic reviews of bilateral cooperation frameworks.
PM Modi’s Ghana visit has not only revived a dormant diplomatic relationship but also opened new frontiers in trade, digital integration, and cultural exchange, setting a strong foundation for India-Africa relations in the years to come.