Ghana (Commonwealth Union)_ Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in Accra, Ghana, on Wednesday for a two-day visit that marks a significant moment in India’s diplomatic outreach to West Africa. This is the first official visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over 30 years, underscoring New Delhi’s renewed focus on strengthening partnerships across the African continent. Accordingly, PM Modi was received at Kotoka International Airport with full ceremonial honours, including a 21-gun salute. Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama personally welcomed him at the airport, a gesture that highlighted the importance both nations attach to the visit. Additionally, traditional drummers and dancers added a vibrant cultural touch to the ceremony, setting the tone for a warm and cordial engagement.
“This visit is historic, not just because of the time gap since the last high-level visit, but also because it symbolizes the enduring friendship between India and Ghana,” said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs. On social media, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for the reception, writing, “Landed in Accra, Ghana. I’m honoured by the special gesture of President John Dramani Mahama for welcoming me at the airport. Our nations look forward to working together to strengthen our long-standing relationship and explore fresh avenues for collaboration.”
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A heartfelt moment with the Indian diaspora
Soon after arriving in Accra, Prime Minister Modi was greeted by hundreds of members from the local Indian community. With over 15,000 Indians living in Ghana, the diaspora turned out in large numbers, lining the entrance of the hotel to offer him a warm welcome. Many came with cultural performances, placards, and tricolor flags, showcasing their pride and excitement. The Prime Minister, visibly moved by the reception, took time to interact with members of the community. “Gladdened by the incredible warmth shown by the Indian community here in Accra. The spirit of togetherness and the deep cultural linkages are truly wonderful,” he wrote in a post on X. Additionally, for many in the diaspora, Modi’s visit was deeply personal. According to them, this is not just a political event. The visit is a moment that reminds them about their roots and connection with India and Ghana.
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Ghana honours Modi with its highest civilian award
In a significant highlight of the visit, President Mahama conferred Ghana’s highest national award, the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana,” upon Prime Minister Modi. The award recognizes his global leadership and efforts to enhance India’s relationship with African nations, including Ghana. Accepting the honour, Modi said, “I humbly receive this award on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India. This is not just a personal honour; it represents the aspirations of our youth, the richness of our culture, and the strength of our historic ties with Ghana.”
India’s Ministry of External Affairs noted that the award is a testament to the close and growing partnership between the two countries, based on shared democratic values, mutual respect, and a common vision for development. In his acceptance remarks, Modi emphasized the importance of working together to build a better future. “This honour also places a new responsibility on me to work even harder for stronger ties between India and Ghana,” he said.
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Strategic talks and agreements
Later in the day, PM Modi had lengthy bilateral meetings with President Mahama at Jubilee House, Ghana’s government headquarters. The two presidents discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in several crucial areas, including trade, energy, essential minerals, defense, and maritime security. Additionally, the two presidents inked four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to further enhance the bilateral collaboration:
Foreign Office Consultations: An agreement to establish regular diplomatic consultations at the foreign ministry level, aiming to institutionalize the dialogue.
Traditional Medicine: A cooperation pact to exchange expertise and promote traditional healing systems, including Ayurveda, which holds growing global interest.
Cultural Exchange Programme: A framework to promote cultural ties, student exchanges, and tourism between the two countries.
Standards and Quality Assurance: A pact to cooperate in standardization and conformity assessment to improve trade quality and safety.
Furthermore, both leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation on global issues, including counter-terrorism. They emphasized the need for a united front against terrorism, calling it a common threat to humanity. “This visit is a new chapter in India-Ghana relations,” said a senior MEA official. “From trade to technology, we are now looking at partnerships that will benefit both our peoples.”
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A broader diplomatic mission
PM Modi’s trip to Ghana is part of a wider diplomatic tour across multiple continents. After Ghana, he will head to Trinidad and Tobago from July 3 to 4, followed by a visit to Argentina on July 4 and 5. His next visit will be to Brazil, where he will attend the 17th BRICS Summit and have a number of bilateral meetings. Furthermore, his diplomatic visit will culminate in Namibia. This long trip involving five nations demonstrates India’s deliberate outreach to the Global South and its desire to work more closely with rising economies. Notably, Modi’s visit to Ghana is a strong indication that India regards its African partners as equal players to global development talks rather than merely economic allies.
A renewed relationship
PM Modi’s visit to Ghana clearly resonated diplomatically, culturally, and personally. From the emotional connection with the Indian community to the official honours and strategic agreements, the visit has laid a strong foundation for deeper India-Ghana ties. As the visit concluded, officials on both sides expressed optimism about future cooperation. “We are not just renewing old ties,” said President Mahama in his closing remarks. “We are building a forward-looking partnership that will stand the test of time.”
