First leg of five-nation tour: PM arrives in Ghana, to hold talks with President, review ties
Accra, July 3:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Ghana on Wednesday, launching his five-nation diplomatic tour. The trip aims to boost India’s global partnerships, especially across Africa. Ghana is the first stop, where Modi plans to hold bilateral talks with President Nana Akufo-Addo and deepen ties in trade, education, technology, and development.
Modi’s arrival at Kotoka International Airport in Accra featured a ceremonial welcome. Ghanaian Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey and members of the Indian community greeted him warmly. The visit highlights India’s growing diplomatic presence in Africa.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Modi will meet President Akufo-Addo at the Jubilee House to discuss key areas of cooperation. Their talks will cover trade, digital technology, education, agriculture, and renewable energy. Both leaders aim to expand long-term partnerships and sign new agreements.
“India and Ghana share a democratic legacy and vibrant people-to-people links,” a senior Indian official said before the trip. The visit reflects India’s commitment to deeper engagement with Africa.
India-Ghana Trade and Economic Ties
India ranks among Ghana’s top trading partners. In recent years, their bilateral trade crossed $2 billion. India exports medicines, machinery, and automobiles to Ghana, while importing gold, cocoa, and timber.
Modi will attend a business forum where Indian and Ghanaian entrepreneurs will explore new investment opportunities. Indian companies are already active in sectors like construction, IT, and manufacturing. Ghana’s stable economy and investor-friendly policies make it attractive to Indian businesses.
Connecting with the Indian Diaspora
Ghana hosts a thriving Indian diaspora involved in trade, healthcare, and social work. Modi will attend a cultural event in Accra to connect with the Indian community. The event will celebrate India-Ghana ties and honor the contributions of overseas Indians.
Historic ties between the two countries date back to the independence era. India supported Ghana’s freedom movement, and leaders like Nehru and Nkrumah shared a close bond. Today, those ties continue through development aid, education, and cultural exchange.
Development and Technology Support
India has helped Ghana build skills and infrastructure through programs like ITEC (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation). Projects include rural electrification, ICT training centers, and medical aid.
Modi’s visit may bring new announcements under the e-Vidya Bharti and e-Aarogya Bharti programs. These platforms support online education and telemedicine in Africa. Ghana already uses some of these services, and more expansion is likely.
India’s fintech models, like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), also interest Ghana. Leaders may discuss cooperation on digital finance and secure payment systems.
Strategic Importance of Africa
Modi’s tour aligns with India’s larger Africa outreach. In recent years, New Delhi has increased its development partnerships across the continent. India promotes equal and respectful collaboration rather than conditional aid.
Ghana is a democratic, stable nation and plays an active role in African diplomacy. The two countries share global goals, including reforms in multilateral institutions like the United Nations. Modi and Akufo-Addo may issue a joint statement on global governance reforms.
This trip also builds momentum for the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit. India expects broader African participation and stronger cooperation on issues like food security, counterterrorism, and climate action.
What’s Next on the Tour
After Ghana, Modi will head to South Africa, where he plans to meet African Union leaders and attend regional summits. The tour will continue to Tanzania, focusing on energy and maritime security. Modi will then visit the UAE and France, where high-level strategic and economic talks are scheduled.
Each destination reflects a region important to India’s foreign policy. The tour combines diplomacy, development, and business outreach.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s visit to Ghana marks a strong start to his five-nation tour. It highlights India’s focus on Africa as a key partner for the future. From trade and technology to people-to-people connections, the visit aims to build trust and long-term cooperation.
India and Ghana are ready to explore new possibilities together. This visit could be a turning point in their relationship—one built on mutual respect, shared values, and a vision for a better future. chapter in India-Ghana relations—paving the way for deeper engagement and enduring collaboration in the years to come.
