30-Year Wait Ends as Modi Stuns Ghana’s Lawmakers
On July 3, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made history by becoming the first Indian leader in over 30 years to address the Parliament of the Republic of Ghana. In his opening remarks, Modi declared, “I am deeply honoured to address this esteemed house today. It is a privilege to be in Ghana, a land that radiates the spirit of democracy.” His words underscored the significance of parliamentary diplomacy and set the tone for an address that blended statecraft with heartfelt tribute.
Modi’s visit to Ghana is a centerpiece of his broader five-nation tour of the Global South, following stops in Namibia and preceding engagements in Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, and Brazil for the BRICS Summit. Beyond high-level talks and signed agreements, the Ghanaian leg of the tour has emphasized people-to-people connections, cultural exchange, and mutual respect for democratic ideals.
Modi Channels 1.4B Indians to Celebrate Ghana’s Golden Democracy Bond
Emphasizing the common values that unite New Delhi and Accra, Modi spoke of India’s identity as the world’s largest democracy and its resonance with Ghana’s own proud history. He told Ghana’s lawmakers,
“As the representative of the world’s largest democracy, I bring with me the goodwill and greetings of 1.4 billion Indians.”
#WATCH | Addressing the Parliament of the Republic of Ghana, PM Narendra Modi says, "As the representative of the world's largest democracy, I bring with me the goodwill and greetings of 1.4 billion Indians. Ghana is known as the land of Gold, not just for what lies under your… pic.twitter.com/PD2X4mjGik
— ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2025
By invoking the collective voice of 1.4 billion citizens, Modi highlighted India’s commitment to pluralism, free institutions, and the rule of law—qualities he said mirror Ghana’s own democratic journey since independence. He praised Ghana as the “land of Gold, not just for what lies under your soil but as much for the warmth and strength in your heart,” a metaphor that celebrated both material prosperity and the nation’s humanitarian spirit.
This mutual celebration of democracy comes at a pivotal moment, as both India and Ghana seek to expand their south-south cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and capacity building. Modi’s address will likely accelerate collaboration on joint training programs, legislative exchanges, and development projects, reinforcing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
Modi Accepts Ghana’s Highest Honour & Amplifies Bilateral Bonds
Modi’s speech also conveyed personal appreciation for the honors bestowed upon him. Reflecting on the previous evening’s ceremony, he remarked,
“Last evening was a deeply moving experience. Receiving your national award from my dear friend, President John Mahama, is an honour. On behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India, I thank the people of Ghana for this honour.”
#WATCH | Addressing the Parliament of the Republic of Ghana, PM Narendra Modi says, "Last evening was a deeply moving experience, receiving your national award from my dear friend, President John Mahama is an honour...On behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India, I thank the… pic.twitter.com/eaKgUNqYra
— ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2025
By expressing gratitude on behalf of every Indian, Modi transformed an individual accolade into a symbol of bilateral friendship. The award ceremony—where President Mahama presented Modi with one of Ghana’s highest civilian honors—was emblematic of the warmth and respect that greeted the prime minister throughout his visit.
Beyond formal protocols, this personal acknowledgment reinforces the soft-power dimension of India’s foreign policy. It showcases how cultural diplomacy, reciprocal recognition, and shared narratives of freedom can deepen ties that extend far beyond trade and technology.
As Modi concluded his address, the Ghanaian Parliament rose in a standing ovation—an acknowledgment not only of a visiting head of government but of a fellow steward of democratic governance. The speech marked a defining moment in India-Ghana relations, one that promises to shape strategic cooperation and parliamentary camaraderie for years to come.
