India Prime Minister Modi Heaps Praises On Ghana’s Democracy: “A Nation That Shines”

• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Ghana’s democratic standing during an address to Parliament
• Modi's two-day trip to Ghana marked the first time an Indian leader visited Ghana in three decades
• Modi also remarked upon a major rail project that opened in Ghana in 2024, financed by the India Export-Import Bank

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Ghana’s commitment to democratic values.

Speaking in Ghana’s Parliament during his official visit, Modi commended the nation’s resilience, leadership, and democratic maturity.

“When we look at Ghana, we see a nation that shines with courage, rises above history, and turns every challenge into creativity and grace."

"Your commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress truly makes Ghana a beacon of inspiration for the entire African continent."

Before delivering his speech in Parliament, Modi visited the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and laid a wreath on the tomb of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah.

What else did Modi say in Parliament?

During the visit, Modi also highlighted a major rail project that opened in Ghana in 2024, financed by the India Export-Import Bank.

He also underlined his country's expanding diplomatic development and business footprint in Africa.

"Over 200 projects across the continent enhance connectivity, infrastructure and Industrial capacity."

Modi's visit is the first to Ghana by an Indian leader in three decades.

In a meeting on June 2, Modi and President John Mahama agreed to deepen security and mining ties.

History of Ghana-India relations

The Ghana-India relationship goes back a long way. Strong foundations were laid by Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah and India’s first Prime Minister, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru.

In recent years, Ghana-India relations have expanded significantly across bilateral trade, defence and development cooperation. In March 2025, India exported $141 million worth of goods to Ghana and imported $239 million from the latter, indicating a negative trade balance of $97.6 million.

Between March 2024 and March 2025, India’s exports to Ghana increased by $31.8 million (29.1%) from $109 million to $141 million, while imports from Ghana increased by $206 million (634%) from $32.5 million to $239 million.

Ghana’s main exports to India in 2024-25 were gold ($125 million), Petroleum: Crude ($74.1 million), and cashew nuts ($16.9 million). India’s main exports to Ghana were: Other Construction Machinery ($28.3 million), Drug Formulations, Biologicals ($12.3 million), and Motor Vehicle/Cars ($8.36 million).

India Prime Minister receives Ghana's highest award

Mahama honoured Modi with Ghana's highest award, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, during his state visit.

The award, which was conferred on the Prime Minister on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, is a testament to the strong diplomatic ties between Ghana and India.

The purpose of the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana is to recognise individuals who have rendered distinguished and meritorious service to the country. It is also to honour both Ghanaian and foreign nationals.

Modi expressed his gratitude to the people and government of Ghana for the honour.

He dedicated the award to the bright future of the youth, their aspirations, and the rich cultural diversity between India and Ghana.

Source: YEN.com.gh