Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Ghana on 2 July 2025 marked a significant milestone in India-Africa relations, as he became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the West African nation in over three decades. The visit, marked by grand ceremonies and high-level talks, has set the stage for a new era of cooperation between the two countries.
Upon his arrival at Accra’s Kotoka International Airport, PM Modi was personally received by Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama. The Indian leader was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour and a 21-gun salute, reflecting the deep diplomatic respect between the two nations. Members of the Indian diaspora, numbering over 15,000 in Ghana, greeted him with chants of “Hare Rama Hare Krishna,” adding a touch of cultural warmth to the occasion.
During his two-day visit, PM Modi held detailed discussions with President Mahama at Jubilee House in Accra. Both leaders agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship to a ‘Comprehensive Partnership’, a move expected to benefit the people of both countries. PM Modi emphasised that India is not just a partner but a “co-traveller in Ghana’s journey of nation-building”.
Four MoUs Signed
A key outcome of the visit was the signing of four major Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These included agreements on cultural cooperation, traditional medicine, standardisation, and the establishment of a Joint Commission Meeting to institutionalise regular high-level dialogue. The MoU on cultural exchange aims to promote deeper understanding through art, music, dance, literature, and heritage, while the agreement on traditional medicine will see collaboration between Indian and Ghanaian institutes in research and education.
Trade and investment featured prominently in the talks. India and Ghana set a target to double bilateral trade over the next five years. Indian companies have already invested nearly $2 billion in around 900 projects in Ghana, and India reaffirmed its support for Ghana’s ongoing economic restructuring. New areas of cooperation were identified in mining and critical minerals, with Indian firms set to collaborate in exploration and industrial development.
UPI Payments in Ghana
Digital technology and financial inclusion were also on the agenda. India offered to share its experience with UPI-based digital payments to help Ghana develop its own financial technology infrastructure, furthering the reach of Indian digital public infrastructure globally.
Defence and security cooperation received a boost, with both sides agreeing to expand collaboration in armed forces training, maritime security, cyber security, and defence supply chains. The leaders committed to advancing defence ties under the principle of “security through solidarity.” Counter-terrorism was also discussed, with both leaders underlining that terrorism is the “enemy of humanity” and agreeing to strengthen joint efforts in this area.
On the multilateral front, PM Modi and President Mahama discussed global conflicts and stressed the importance of resolving issues through dialogue and diplomacy. They also reaffirmed their shared commitment to UN reforms and acknowledged the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20 as a proud achievement during India’s presidency.
PM Modi Conferred with Ghana’s Highest Owner
A special highlight of the visit was the conferment of Ghana’s highest national honour, ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’, on Prime Minister Modi. President Mahama presented the award in recognition of Modi’s global leadership and his efforts to strengthen India-Ghana ties. Modi dedicated the honour to the people of India, especially the youth, and to the enduring friendship between the two countries.
The visit, which is the first leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour, has been described by both Indian and Ghanaian officials as historic. It signals a renewed commitment to deepening ties not only bilaterally but also as part of India’s broader engagement with Africa and the Global South.
