PM Modi Receives Ghana’s Highest Honour During Historic Visit

• PM Modi was awarded Ghana’s highest civilian honor during his first trip to Ghana in over 30 years.
• He dedicated the award to the aspirations of the youth and cultural diversity of both countries.
• PM Modi announced a new Comprehensive Partnership focused on defense and economic cooperation.
• India plans to bolster scholarships and establish a Skill Development Centre in Ghana.
• The two countries aim to double trade and enhance counter-terrorism efforts.

Modi Accepts Award on Behalf of 1.4 Billion Indians

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, which is the highest civilian accolade in the country. The award was presented by President John Mahama during Modi’s visit to Ghana, making it a historical moment as this marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over thirty years. Addressing the gathering, PM Modi expressed his heartfelt thanks, calling the prestigious honor a ‘matter of immense pride,’ and dedicated it to the youth of the two nations.

Comprehensive Partnership to Strengthen India-Ghana Relations

In his remarks following the honor, PM Modi emphasized the importance of fostering stronger relations between India and Ghana. He announced plans to upgrade their relationship to a ‘Comprehensive Partnership’ that encompasses both defense and economic collaboration, highlighting a shared commitment to security under the principle of ‘Security through Solidarity.’ The Prime Minister described India not just as a partner, but as a ‘co-traveller’ in Ghana’s path toward nation-building, which shows a deepening mutual respect between the two countries.

New Initiatives to Foster Cooperation and Growth

During the visit, PM Modi revealed several initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation, including doubling scholarships through the ITEC and ICCR programs. He also mentioned the establishment of a Skill Development Centre for vocational training and India’s support for Ghana’s agricultural initiative known as the ‘Feed Ghana’ program. Other areas of collaboration discussed included public health, specifically in vaccine production, and a commitment to double trade between the countries over the next five years, including sharing the Bharat UPI digital payments platform.

Historical Ties and Future Commitments

The discussions were extensive, covering critical areas such as agriculture, energy, manufacturing, healthcare, and human resources, marking the depth of commitment both leaders have to further their connection. President Mahama welcomed PM Modi by reflecting on the historical ties founded by national leaders Kwame Nkrumah and Jawaharlal Nehru. As the world watches these developments, the visit appears to solidify New Delhi’s ongoing dedication to strengthening its engagement with Africa and the Global South.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Ghana stands as a significant moment in diplomatic relations between India and Ghana, emphasizing historical bonds and a modern commitment to partnership. With plans in motion for skill development and agricultural collaboration, future trade initiatives, and a mutual focus on security, this visit is more than ceremonial. It signifies a deeper engagement that could yield substantial benefits for both nations, paving the way for fruitful cooperation ahead.