How are PM Modi and South African Prez Ramaphosa Enhancing Trade and Technology?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal meeting at the G20 Summit, PM Modi and President Ramaphosa discuss crucial aspects of India-South Africa relations, focusing on trade, technology, and global collaboration. Their dialogue aims at boosting commerce, culture, and investment, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation in vital sectors like AI and critical minerals.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened bilateral relations between India and South Africa.
- Focus on enhancing trade and investment opportunities.
- Collaborative efforts in AI and critical minerals.
- Commitment to cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties.
- Support for the Global South's voice in international affairs.
Johannesburg, Nov 23 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during the G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg on Sunday, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations. The discussions emphasized increasing integration in commerce, culture, and investment, alongside diversifying collaborations in technology, skilling, AI, critical minerals, and other vital sectors.
Post-meeting, PM Modi shared on X, "Had a productive discussion with President Cyril Ramaphosa at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg. We evaluated the entire spectrum of the India-South Africa partnership, particularly in enhancing connections in commerce, culture, investment, and diversifying cooperation in technology, skilling, AI, critical minerals, and beyond. I congratulated President Ramaphosa for the successful G20 Presidency of South Africa."
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, along with MEA Secretary Sudhakar Dalela and other officials, were part of the meeting.
The Prime Minister's Office highlighted that, "Acknowledging the historical connections that fortify India-South Africa relations, both leaders assessed bilateral ties and expressed contentment regarding advancements in various cooperative fields, including trade and investment, food security, skill development, mining, youth exchange, and people-to-people relations. They deliberated on enhancing cooperation in AI, Digital Public Infrastructure, and critical minerals."
They also welcomed the increasing presence of Indian companies in South Africa and concurred on facilitating mutual investments, particularly in infrastructure, technology, innovation, mining, and start-ups.
Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to President Ramaphosa for the relocation of South African cheetahs to India and invited him to partake in the International Big Cat Alliance spearheaded by India.
The leaders also resolved to collaborate in amplifying the voice of the Global South, as stated in the meeting summary.
PM Modi praised South Africa's initiative to host the IBSA leaders meeting, while Ramaphosa committed to supporting India’s upcoming BRICS chairmanship in 2026.
Sharing a video clip of their engagement on X, South Africa's Presidency remarked, "His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa is in a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the Republic of India on the margins of the Group of Twenty (G20) Leaders' Summit hosted by South Africa at the Johannesburg EXPO Centre, Gauteng."
"This morning's bilateral meeting between the Heads of State serves as an opportunity to re-engage constructively, fortify bilateral relations, and explore mutually advantageous initiatives in trade, industrialization, education, ICT, and infrastructure development," it further noted.
Point of View
The meeting between PM Modi and President Ramaphosa reflects a strategic alignment of interests between India and South Africa. As both countries seek to amplify their influence on the global stage, this partnership not only enhances bilateral ties but also strengthens the voice of the Global South, fostering a more equitable international landscape.
NationPress
23/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main topics discussed during the Modi-Ramaphosa meeting?
The leaders discussed enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on trade, investment, technology, culture, and cooperation in AI and critical minerals.
Why is the partnership between India and South Africa important?
This partnership enhances trade and investment opportunities, strengthens cultural ties, and amplifies the voice of the Global South in international forums.
What initiatives were highlighted in the meeting?
Key initiatives include cooperation in technology, skilling, digital public infrastructure, and mutual investments in various sectors.
What was the significance of the G20 Summit for these discussions?
The G20 Summit provided a platform for both leaders to engage in high-level discussions, reflecting their commitment to global cooperation and partnership.
How will this meeting impact future India-South Africa relations?
The meeting will likely strengthen collaborative efforts in key sectors, facilitating economic growth and enhancing diplomatic ties.
