Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Ghana for a two-day official visit, marking a significant milestone in India-Ghana relations as the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister in three decades. This visit underscores Ghana's growing importance in India's foreign policy and economic strategy, aiming to strengthen the bonds of friendship and explore new avenues for cooperation.
The visit is expected to deepen cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, agriculture, technology, education, healthcare, and energy. Discussions will also encompass regional and global issues of mutual interest. Several bilateral agreements are set to be signed to strengthen cooperation frameworks between the two nations.
During his stay, Prime Minister Modi will meet with President John Dramani Mahama to discuss ways to deepen bilateral cooperation. He is also expected to address the Parliament of Ghana, a rare privilege extended to only a few world leaders. Additionally, he will engage with the Indian community in Ghana and pay his respects at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
India and Ghana share traditionally warm and friendly relations, built on shared values and a common vision. India established its presence in Accra in 1953, even before Ghana's independence, and formalized diplomatic relations in 1957 immediately after Ghana gained independence. High-level visits have played a crucial role in strengthening bilateral ties.
India has been a committed development partner for Ghana, extending concessional credit and grants of approximately $450 million for infrastructure and capacity-building projects. Key initiatives include the India-Ghana Kofi Annan ICT Centre of Excellence, the Rural Electrification Project, and the rehabilitation of the Jubilee House Presidential Complex.
Ghana is an important trading partner for India in West Africa, with bilateral trade valued at around $3 billion. Gold accounts for over 70% of India's imports from Ghana. The two countries have established robust institutional mechanisms, including the Joint Commission and the Joint Trade Committee, to facilitate regular dialogue.
Several MoUs are expected to be signed during the visit, including one for establishing a vaccine manufacturing hub in Ghana to boost health security in the sub-region. Other MoUs include the establishment of a Ghana-India Joint Commission, cooperation between institutions of Alternative Medicine, and a Cultural Exchange Agreement.
Prime Minister Modi will be conferred with the Companion of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the country's highest national honor, in recognition of India's consistent support for Ghana's development.
The Indian diaspora in Ghana has expressed excitement about Prime Minister Modi's visit and anticipates greater cooperation between the two countries, particularly in healthcare. The visit is expected to strengthen India's engagement with regional groups such as ECOWAS and the African Union.
Following his Ghana visit, Prime Minister Modi will proceed to Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia as part of his five-nation tour to deepen ties with the Global South.