How did PM Modi receive a warm welcome from the Indian community in Ghana?

Accra, July 2 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi was greeted with an enthusiastic reception from the Indian community in Ghana as he commenced his pivotal visit on Wednesday. This warm welcome took place at a hotel in Accra, shortly after his arrival in the West African nation.

Ghana is home to a substantial Indian population exceeding 15,000 individuals, many of whom have resided in the country for over 70 years. Some families have established roots spanning four generations, with most having obtained Ghanaian citizenship. Numerous expatriates also contribute to local businesses and multinational corporations as skilled professionals.

As PM Modi arrived at the hotel, hundreds of attendees began chanting phrases such as 'Modi-Modi', 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai', and 'Vande Mataram'.

During the festive occasion, PM Modi engaged with members of the Indian diaspora, sharing a heartwarming moment as he held a child, creating a memorable experience for the family.

Earlier in the day, upon his inaugural bilateral visit to Ghana—the first by an Indian Prime Minister in three decades—he received a warm welcome from Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama at the Kotoka International Airport, underscoring the significance of this historic trip.

At the airport, PM Modi was honored with a ceremonial welcome, and a brief meeting took place between the two leaders at the airport's Jubilee Lounge.

In his departure statement, PM Modi remarked, 'Ghana is a valued partner in the Global South, playing a crucial role in the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States. I anticipate fruitful discussions aimed at deepening our historical ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation across various sectors including investment, energy, health, and security.'

Ghana marks the first destination in PM Modi's five-nation tour, which will continue to Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia.

Later in the evening, a delegation-level meeting is scheduled to review bilateral relations and explore strategies for strengthening partnerships. The Prime Minister is also set to have a private meeting with his Ghanaian counterpart, followed by a banquet dinner in honor of PM Modi.

On Thursday, PM Modi will address the Ghanaian Parliament and interact with the local Indian community, which numbers around 15,000.

Dammu Ravi, Secretary (ER) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), noted the importance of this visit, stating, 'President Mahama has just begun his term following a significant victory, making this visit timely for deepening our relationship.'

President Mahama previously visited India for the India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015, and both leaders have met at various global events.

According to the MEA Secretary, 'India's relationship with Ghana is historically significant. Over seven decades, it has developed into a multifaceted partnership. We championed Ghana's cause in the UN even before its independence in 1957, maintaining a close collaboration on various issues vital for the Global South.'

The Ministry emphasized the commitment to boosting economic cooperation as Ghana undergoes substantial economic restructuring.

Notably, Ghana has engaged with the IMF 17 times for economic adjustments, indicating that economic discussions will be central to the talks. The bilateral trade between India and Ghana amounts to approximately $3 billion, largely due to gold imports, with investments in Ghana reaching around $2 billion.

The Ghanaian leadership is particularly interested in collaborating with India on vaccine development and establishing a vaccine hub for West Africa. Discussions will also encompass defense cooperation, critical minerals, and digital public infrastructure.

This visit reinforces the commitment of both nations to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance India's engagement with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union.