India strengthens Global South leadership and economic diplomacy with first Prime Ministerial visit to Ghana in 30 years Source: PIB/DD News
In a landmark move to bolster India’s economic diplomacy in West Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a two-day official visit to Ghana from July 2–3, marking the first Indian Prime Ministerial visit to the country in over three decades. The trip will be the inaugural stop in his five-nation tour, which includes Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that the visit will be heavily focused on the economic agenda, especially as Ghana undertakes an ambitious phase of economic restructuring.
“This visit will provide an opportunity to review bilateral relations and explore areas of deeper engagement including agriculture, vaccine development, defence, digital infrastructure, and critical minerals,” said Dammu Ravi, MEA Secretary (Economic Relations), during a pre-visit briefing.
A ceremonial welcome, delegation-level talks, a banquet dinner, an address to Ghana’s Parliament, and an interaction with the 15,000-strong Indian diaspora are key highlights of the visit.
This will also be PM Modi’s first-ever bilateral visit to Ghana, underscoring India’s strategic intent to solidify its presence in Africa—an increasingly important partner in the global economy.
“India has historically stood by Ghana, supporting it even before its independence in 1957,” Ravi noted, highlighting the diplomatic office India opened in Accra in 1953 and India’s consistent support in multilateral platforms.
Shared Goals: Economy, Development, and Global South Voice
India and Ghana already share a $3 billion trade relationship, with gold being the dominant import. PM Modi’s visit aims to deepen this economic partnership through projects in agriculture, vaccine manufacturing, defence, and digital public goods.
“President Mahama is especially keen on vaccine partnerships to establish a regional hub,” Ravi added.
The visit will also strengthen India’s engagement with ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) and the African Union, reinforcing PM Modi’s vision of India as a ‘Vishwa Bandhu’—a trusted partner to the Global South in an increasingly divided world.
Longstanding Bonds and People-to-People Connect
India’s connection with Ghana goes beyond trade and diplomacy. A thriving Indian community—some now in their fourth generation—has played a vital role in strengthening the people-to-people ties.
India has extended over $450 million in Lines of Credit and grants to Ghana, funding infrastructure, agriculture, and technology projects. India also remains one of the top destinations for Ghanaian exports.
“The Prime Minister’s visit is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to deepen bilateral ties,” said Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesman of Ghana. “The leaders will engage on issues ranging from technology and education to healthcare and energy.”
This high-profile trip promises to open new chapters in India-Ghana relations, enhance regional partnerships, and continue India’s assertive outreach as a development partner and economic ally to Africa.
Key Highlights
- First Indian PM visit to Ghana in over 30 years
- Bilateral trade stands at $3 billion; focus on agriculture, vaccines, and critical minerals
- Ghana President Mahama’s first major bilateral engagement since assuming office
- PM Modi to address Ghana’s Parliament and meet Indian diaspora
- Strengthens India’s Global South leadership and ECOWAS ties
Source: DD News | Ministry of External Affairs (India) | Office of the President, Republic of Ghana
