Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his first-ever address to the Parliament of Ghana in Accra, received thunderous applause as Ghanaian MPs expressed cultural solidarity by wearing Indian attire. Two MPs dressed in traditional Indian attire to respect India and India’s culture, eliciting warm admiration from the Ghanaian Speaker and PM Modi.
As Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, delivered his concluding remarks after PM Modi’s address, he noticed the special gesture. An MP wore a traditional Indian ‘pagdi’ (headgear) and a ‘Bandhgala’ (closed-necked suit), while an MP woman stood up to show her Indian outfit with pride.
Parliament burst into applause, accompanied by Prime Minister Modi himself. Speaker Bagbin said, “I notice that the honourable member is eager to come to India. I want to assure you that I will never hold my pen from sanctioning your visit. My attention has been drawn to the fact that he is not single and has a companion. I thank the members for demonstrating their love for India, its people, and their culture.”
PM Modi Praises Ghana’s Democratic Ethos
In his inspiring speech, PM Modi appreciated Ghana’s democratic spirit and resilience. “It is an honor to be in Ghana — a country that emanates the spirit of democracy, dignity, and resilience. As the emissary of the world’s largest democracy, I carry with me the goodwill and greetings of 1.4 billion Indians,” he stated.
He continued, “Ghana is called the land of gold, not only for what is beneath your earth, but as much for the warmth and strength in your hearts. As we regard Ghana, we see a nation radiating courage that transcends history that greets each challenge with dignity and grace.”
The Indian Prime Minister also reiterated India’s alliance with Africa, especially the support of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. “Africa’s aspirations are our priorities. Our strategy is to develop together as partners. Our development cooperation with Africa is demand-driven. It is centered on local capacity building and generating local opportunities. Our aim is not merely to invest, but to empower. To assist in developing self-sustaining eco-systems,” he asserted.
Ghana Bestows Modi with Distinguished Honour
Earlier today, President John Dramani Mahama bestowed upon PM Modi Ghana’s highest civilian award, Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana. Moreover, the accolade acknowledged his statesmanship, global development efforts, and his pivotal role in developing the India-Ghana relationship.
PM Modi accepted the award on behalf of India’s people. “I accept it on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians. I dedicate it to the hopes and aspirations of India’s youth, to our cultural heritage, and the old civilizational links between our countries,” he stated.
A press release issued by President Mahama’s office stated, “It further recognized his stellar efforts in lifting his country and outstretched hand of cooperation towards the world at large, including Ghana. The award specifically recognized his illustrious leadership, his large contribution to world development, and his abiding commitment to strengthening the critical bilateral relationship between Ghana and India.