03 JUL 2025, New Delhi
On July 2, 2025, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited Ghana, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so in the last 30 years. He was warmly welcomed by the President of Ghana, Dr. John Dramani Mahama, at Jubilee House, the official residence and office of the Ghanaian President.
Strengthening India-Ghana Friendship
During this special visit, both leaders held important discussions in private and with their teams. They decided to take India-Ghana relations to the next level by forming a “Comprehensive Partnership.” This means the two countries will now work together more closely in many areas like trade, agriculture, education, digital technology, infrastructure, and health.
Prime Minister Modi praised Ghana’s democratic values and appreciated its growing role on the international stage, including its seat on the UN Human Rights Council. He also congratulated Ghana’s Foreign Minister on becoming the Commonwealth Secretary-General.
The leaders agreed to:
- Double bilateral trade in the next five years (currently over $3 billion).
- Increase Indian investments in Ghana (currently about $2 billion in 900+ projects).
- Share India’s success in digital payments (like UPI) and low-cost healthcare (Jan Aushadhi).
- Start a Skill Development Centre to train Ghana’s youth.
- Support Ghana’s “Feed Ghana” program for agriculture.
- Increase scholarships for Ghanaian students.
- Work together in defence, cybersecurity, mineral exploration, and renewable energy.
India also invited Ghana to join the Global Biofuels Alliance and offered help in clean cooking energy and vaccine production.
Global Cooperation & Shared Values
Both countries expressed their shared views on global peace, fighting terrorism, and reforming the United Nations. They agreed that current world conflicts should be solved through dialogue, not war. Prime Minister Modi thanked Ghana for standing with India during difficult times like the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
MoUs Signed to Boost Cooperation
Four important MoUs (agreements) were signed:
- Cultural Exchange – Promoting art, music, dance, and heritage.
- Standards Agreement – Cooperation between Indian and Ghanaian quality standard bodies.
- Ayurveda & Traditional Medicine – Collaboration in education and research.
- Joint Commission Mechanism – Regular meetings between foreign ministries to review progress.
National Honour for Prime Minister Modi
As a mark of deep respect, Ghana awarded Prime Minister Modi its national honour – Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana. This is one of the country’s highest awards and was given for his leadership and efforts in global cooperation. PM Modi accepted the award on behalf of all 1.4 billion Indians and dedicated it to the dreams of India’s youth, the country’s culture, and the long-standing India-Ghana friendship.
Prime Minister’s Message
In his speech, PM Modi said he was honoured by the love and respect shown by the people of Ghana. He mentioned the important role played by the Indian community in Ghana—teachers, doctors, engineers—who are helping Ghana grow. He also thanked President Mahama for ensuring the well-being of over 15,000 Indians living there.
Before leaving, Prime Minister Modi invited President Mahama to visit India soon.
Source: PIB