During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Ghana, bilateral relations between India and Ghana were elevated to a 'Comprehensive Partnership'. During the visit, four important agreements were signed to expand cooperation in various fields and the Prime Minister was conferred with Ghana's highest civilian honour.
High level meeting between PM Modi and President of Ghana
Prime Minister Modi and Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama held a high-level meeting at Jubilee House in Accra, after which the two leaders delivered a joint press statement. This is the first state visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in three decades.
A consensus was reached in the meeting to expand bilateral cooperation to new areas
In the meeting, it was agreed to expand bilateral cooperation to new areas. Cooperation in the field of trade, investment, agriculture, health, digital technology, defense and energy was given priority. India proposed sharing of experience in digital payment system (UPI), medicine facility (Jan Aushadhi), skill development, and vaccine production. Also, emphasis was laid on further strengthening India-supported infrastructure projects and capacity building programs.
Four MoUs were exchanged
Four MoUs were exchanged during the talks. These include cultural exchange, cooperation in standardization, traditional medical education and research, and institutional meetings of the Joint Commission between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs. These agreements aim to ensure continuous dialogue and cooperation between the two countries.
PM Modi was awarded the 'Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana' honour
Prime Minister Modi was conferred the 'Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana' honour, which he dedicated to India's 1.4 billion citizens, the aspirations of the youth, India's cultural diversity and the historical ties between the two countries. The Prime Minister also said that this honour increases the responsibility to further deepen bilateral friendship.
PM Modi lauds 'economic restructuring' being carried out under President Mahama's leadership
In the joint statement, the Prime Minister praised the 'economic restructuring' being carried out under the leadership of President Mahama and assured cooperation in the 'Feed Ghana' program. He informed that India will double the number of ITEC and ICCR scholarships and establish a skill development center. In the defense sector, it was decided to promote cooperation in maritime security, cyber security, and military training.
India invites Ghana to join the Global Biofuels Alliance
India invited Ghana to join the Global Biofuels Alliance and offered cooperation in the clean energy sector. The two leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in UN reform, the fight against terrorism, and global peace and sustainable development.
PM calls Ghana a “ray of hope” in West Africa
The Prime Minister called Ghana a “ray of hope” in West Africa and said that India-Ghana friendship is based on shared values and struggles. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that it was a matter of pride that the African Union was given permanent membership of the G20 during India's G20 Presidency. He reiterated India's commitment to raise the voice of the countries of the Global South and appreciated Ghana's participation in the 'Voice of Global South' Summit.
PM Modi also particularly highlighted the contribution of the Indian community in Ghana
The Prime Minister also particularly highlighted the contribution of the Indian community in Ghana. He said teachers, doctors and engineers have been serving there for a long time and contributing to the progress of the country.
PM Modi invited President Mahama to visit India
PM Modi also invited President Mahama to visit India. It is noteworthy that relations between India and Ghana have been historic from the colonial period till today. India has been participating in railway, ICT, traditional medicine, and industrial projects in Ghana.