“South-South Power Play”: Modi Seals Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in Accra

In a major diplomatic milestone, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the Parliament of the Republic of Ghana on July 3, 2025, during his two-day state visit to the West African nation. This marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has addressed Ghana’s legislative body, symbolizing a new phase in the India-Ghana strategic relationship.

Modi’s visit to Ghana is part of his broader five-nation tour of the Global South, which includes Namibia, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, and Brazil (for the BRICS Summit). The tour focuses on boosting political, economic, and cultural ties with emerging nations and reinforcing India’s leadership in the Global South discourse.

Upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport, PM Modi was welcomed with full state honors, including a Guard of Honour and a 21-gun salute. In a cultural twist, young Ghanaian children greeted him with “Hare Rama Hare Krishna” chants and Indian flags, while members of the Indian diaspora chanted “Modi-Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” outside his hotel in Accra.

During bilateral talks at Jubilee House, Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama invited Modi to address Parliament—a gesture seen as both historic and strategic. The two countries signed four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), covering cultural exchange, traditional music, digital cooperation, and skills development. The partnership was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, signaling a deeper long-term commitment.

Modi’s Accra Speech Marks Bold India-Africa Diplomatic Reset

PM Modi’s address to Ghana’s Parliament is expected to focus on shared democratic values, the vision for South-South cooperation, and emerging areas such as digital infrastructure, renewable energy, defense collaboration, and human development.

The move aligns with India’s growing emphasis on parliamentary diplomacy, following scheduled addresses to legislatures in Namibia and Trinidad & Tobago. Modi’s engagement with parliaments across continents underlines India’s approach to build institution-to-institution linkages alongside executive-level diplomacy.

For India, Ghana represents a key gateway into West Africa, not only for trade and investment but also for strategic alternatives to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Modi’s address will reinforce India’s intent to be a development partner of choice, rooted in respect, mutual benefit, and cultural kinship.

This event is more than a speech—it’s a declaration that India’s Africa policy has entered a bold, people-centric era, where diplomacy blends with tradition, and cooperation is built on trust.