PM Narendra Modi addressed the Parliament of Ghana. This is the first visit by an Indian PM in 30 years. Four significant agreements were signed between the two countries, and there was an agreement to further strengthen relations.
Modi Ghana Speech: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a historic visit to Ghana, an African nation. This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in three decades. On this occasion, Prime Minister Modi was invited to address the Parliament of Ghana. During his address in Parliament, PM Modi emphasized the b and cordial relations between India and Ghana, describing them as sweeter than Ghana's famous 'Sugar Loaf Pineapple'.
At the beginning of his speech in Parliament, PM Modi said that it was a matter of great pride for him to address the Parliament of Ghana, a land imbued with the spirit of democracy, as a representative of the world's largest democracy. He conveyed greetings and goodwill on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians.
Ghana Described as a Source of Inspiration for Africa
Prime Minister Modi, while appreciating Ghana's achievements and democratic values, said that the country has become a symbol of inclusive development, courage, and facing challenges with dignity. He stated that Ghana is a center of inspiration for the entire African continent. PM Modi also described the national honor he received the previous evening as a deeply emotional moment, saying that he would always cherish this honor.
Four Important Agreements Between India and Ghana
In the presence of Prime Minister Modi and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, the two countries signed four major MoUs (Memorandum of Understanding).
- MoU on Cultural Exchange Program (CEP): Under this, cooperation between the two countries in the fields of art, music, dance, literature, and heritage will increase.
- MoU between the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA): This will encourage cooperation in standardization, certification, and conformity assessment.
- Cooperation on Traditional Medicine: An agreement was reached between the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) and Ghana's Traditional and Alternative Medicine (ITAM) to promote education, training, and research in traditional medicine.
- MoU on Joint Commission Meeting: This will provide a means to maintain regular high-level bilateral dialogue and review cooperation.
Traditional Style Welcome
Upon Prime Minister Modi's arrival in Ghana, he was welcomed in the traditional Ghanaian style, which included folk music and dance. This welcome reflects the deep cultural ties between the two countries. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described this visit as historic, stating that it symbolizes the revival of relations between India and Ghana that were established during the anti-colonial struggle.
Warm Welcome by the Indian Community
Upon reaching the hotel in Accra, PM Modi was welcomed by a large number of members of the Indian community residing there. Currently, there are approximately 15,000 Indian expatriates in Ghana, who strengthen social and business relations between the two countries.
Delegation-level meeting held at Jubilee House
Prime Minister Modi held a delegation-level meeting with President Mahama at Jubilee House in Accra. During this meeting, both leaders reviewed the progress in various areas of mutual interest and agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in the future.
Shared Emotional Moment on Social Media
PM Modi also reacted on social media regarding his visit to Ghana. He said, "I feel honored to be in Accra, Ghana. Being welcomed by President Mahama at the airport is a matter of pride for me. Our countries will together further strengthen long-term relations and explore possibilities of cooperation in new areas."