In Ghana, PM Modi says post-World War II global order changing fast, calls for ‘credible’ reforms to governance

Modi also addressed the Ghanaian Parliament later in the day, saying: “Africa’s goals are our priorities. Our approach is to grow together as equals.”

Underlining Africa’s importance for India, he told the Parliament: “Our development partnership with Africa is demand-driven. It is focused on building local capacities and creating local opportunities. Our objective is not just to invest, but to empower. To help develop self-sustaining ecosystems.”

This was the first state visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in three decades.

The West African country conferred the Order of the Star of Ghana on Modi, citing his “global statesmanship and in recognition of his contribution to the global peace and stability”.

During the Modi-Mahama talks, both sides exchanged four MoUs on culture, standards, ayurveda and traditional medicine, and a joint commission mechanism for engagement between the two Foreign Ministries. A statement by India’s Ministry of External Affairs said: “Both leaders… discussed ways to expand cooperation in key areas including trade and investment, agriculture, capacity building, digital technology, infrastructure, and people-to-people ties.”

Modi said after the talks: “Today, the President and I have decided to elevate our bilateral relationship into a ‘Comprehensive Partnership’. In Ghana’s journey of nation building, India is not just a supporter, but also a fellow traveller.”

Modi said bilateral trade with Ghana had crossed $3 billion, and Indian companies had invested around $2 billion across 900 projects. “Today, we’ve set a target to double our bilateral trade over the next five years. In the area of Fintech, India is ready to share its experience with UPI,” he said.

The PM said development partnership was a key pillar of the ties. “We assure India’s complete support and cooperation towards President Mahama’s efforts of economic restructuring.”

Modi announced a doubling in the number of scholarships, a skill development centre for vocational training, and support in agriculture as well.

“India is proposing to provide affordable healthcare and reliable care to the citizens of Ghana through Jan Aushadhi Kendras. We’ve discussed cooperation in vaccine production,” the Prime Minister said.

In the area of Defence and Security, he said: “We will move forward with the mantra of security through stability. Cooperation will be extended in areas such as training of armed forces, maritime security, defence supplies and cyber security.”

He also said Indian companies will cooperate with Ghana in the exploration and mining of critical minerals.

On terrorism, he said: “We also held discussions on regional and international issues, including the Sahel region. We are united in our view that terrorism is the enemy of humanity. We express our sincere gratitude to Ghana for its cooperation in our fight against terrorism. In this context, we have decided to further strengthen our cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.” Modi also thanked Mahama for his support in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack.

The PM said: “We both have expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Europe. Issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.”

At the Ghanaian Parliament, Modi also said India remains a committed partner in Africa’s development journey. “We support Africa’s Development Framework, Agenda 2063, to secure a bright and sustainable future for its people”, he said.

The PM called Ghana a “beacon of inspiration” for the continent due to its commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress. He said: “The histories of India and Ghana bear the scars of colonial rule. But our spirits have always remained free and fearless. We draw strength and inspiration from our rich heritage.”

Flagging changes in the world order created after World War II, Modi said progress cannot come without giving a voice to the Global South. “The world is also facing new and complex crises such as climate change, pandemics, terrorism, and cybersecurity. Institutions created in the last century are struggling to respond. The changing circumstances demand credible and effective reforms in global governance,” he told Ghana’s parliamentarians.

“During India’s G20 Presidency…. we put emphasis on Africa’s rightful place at the global high table. We are proud that the African Union became a permanent member of the G20 during our Presidency,” he said.

The Prime Minister also paid homage to Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founding President.

Modi has left for Trinidad and Tobago for the second-leg of his five-nation visit.