India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Johannesburg on Friday to participate in the G-20 Summit, which is being held under the presidency of South Africa. He was traditionally welcomed at Air Force Base Waterkloof (AFB Waterkloof) with Vedic chants and a guard of honor.
Johannesburg: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Johannesburg on Friday to attend the G-20 Summit, being held under the presidency of South Africa, where he received a grand welcome. The South African Air Force honored him with a red carpet ceremony at the Waterkloof Air Force Base in Gauteng. Regarding his meetings with world leaders on the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi expressed hope for meaningful and constructive discussions on key global issues, which could provide a new direction for global cooperation and partnership.
City Adorned with Posters of Modi, Putin, and Xi Jinping in Johannesburg
In anticipation of the G-20 Summit, the streets of Johannesburg have been adorned with posters of leaders from various countries. Large hoardings featuring images of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping have been put up in prominent locations across the city. Although China's President and former US President Donald Trump are not attending the summit this time, their presence is symbolically depicted on the posters.
Upon his arrival at the South African Presidential Residence, Prime Minister Modi was welcomed by Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni. A special cultural troupe greeted the Indian Prime Minister with traditional songs and dances.
PM Modi Hopes for Meaningful Discussions on Key Global Issues
Immediately upon arriving in Johannesburg, Prime Minister Modi shared a message on social media. He wrote,
'Pleased to be in South Africa for the programmes related to the G-20 Summit. I look forward to meaningful discussions with world leaders on key global issues. Our aim is to strengthen global cooperation and give new momentum to development.”
His visit further accelerates India's policy of becoming the voice of the Global South. During its G-20 presidency, India played a significant role in securing permanent membership for the African Union in the organization. This has therefore enhanced the symbolic importance of the G-20 Summit being held in Africa for the first time.'
When Prime Minister Modi arrived at his hotel, a group of children recited Ganapati prayers and Shanti Mantras. This sight became a special attraction for both the Indian community present there and local citizens. Artists performed dances showcasing the cultural glimpses of Indian states—Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan.
Modi interacted with the children and artists participating in the event and appeared overwhelmed by the welcome given by the community. He said, 'The affection of the Indian community in Johannesburg has deeply touched me. This reflects the strength of the centuries-old ties between India and South Africa.'
Will Also Participate in Bilateral Meetings and IBSA Summit
In addition to the formal G-20 programs, Prime Minister Modi will also hold bilateral talks with several world leaders. He will also participate in the Sixth Summit of IBSA, the trilateral group comprising India, Brazil, and South Africa. This visit comes at a time when the world is grappling with challenges such as climate change, global recession, geopolitical tensions, and issues faced by developing countries. India's role has emerged as a bridge on all these issues.
