‘We Need Action, Not Just Slogans’: PM Modi Calls For Credible Global Reforms In Ghana Parliament Speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a historic speech at the Parliament of the Republic of Ghana on Thursday, marking the first prime ministerial visit from India to the country in three decades. During his address, PM Modi emphasised the shared democratic values and deep-rooted friendship between India and Ghana, describing the African nation as “a land that radiates the spirit of democracy”.

Earlier, PM Modi was conferred with Ghana’s highest national honour, ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’, by President John Dramani Mahama. In his acceptance speech, Modi dedicated the award to the “aspirations and bright future of the youth of the two countries,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

Addressing the Ghanaian lawmakers, PM Modi remarked, “As the world's largest democracy, India is a pillar of strength for the world. A strong India will contribute to a more stable and prosperous world.”

Highlighting India’s rich democratic ethos, he continued, “India is the mother of democracy. For us, democracy is not merely a system; it is a part of our fundamental values…India has over 2,500 political parties, 20 different parties governing different states, 22 official languages, thousands of dialects. This is also the reason that people who came to India have always been welcomed with open hearts.”

Reflecting on the countries’ historical experiences, Modi noted, “The histories of India and Ghana bear the scars of colonial rule, but our spirits have always remained free and fearless. We draw strength and inspiration from our rich heritage…Our friendship is sweeter than your famous, Sugar Loaf Pineapple.”

In a significant diplomatic development, PM Modi announced, “We have decided to elevate our ties to a comprehensive partnership.”

He stressed that changing global circumstances require effective reforms, stating, “The world order created after the Second World War is changing fast. The revolution in technology, the rise of the global south and shifting demographics are contributing to its pace and scale. The challenges, such as colonial rule, that humanity has faced in earlier centuries still persist in different forms.”

He further asserted, “The world is also facing new and complex crises such as climate change, pandemics, terrorism, and cybersecurity. Institutions created in the last century are struggling to respond. The changing circumstances demand credible and effective reforms in global governance... We need more than slogans. We need action that is why during India's G20 presidency, we worked with the vision, one Earth, one family, one future. We put emphasis on Africa's rightful place at the global high table. We are proud that the African Union became a permanent member of the G20 during our presidency.”

He also highlighted his prior Africa visit, stating that Africa has been connected to many of India's proudest moments in space. “When India's Chandrayaan landed on the Moon's South Pole, I was in Africa and today, as an Indian Astronaut conducts experiments onboard a space station for the welfare of humanity, I am once again in Africa,” he recalled.

Highlighting his government’s three consecutive wins, PM Modi told the Ghanian Parliament, “The people of India have reposed their faith in peace, security and development. Last year, they re-elected the same government for the third consecutive time, something that happened after more than six decades...India will soon be the third largest economy.”

“I invite you to visit the new Parliament of India. You will be able to see the bold step that we have taken to reserve one-third of the seats in the Indian Parliament and the state assemblies for women,” he added.

Expressing optimism for the future of India-Ghana relations, Modi declared, “Together, we will shape a future full of promises and progress.”

PM Modi On Ghana's National Honour

Receiving the award, PM Modi described the recognition as a “matter of great pride and honour” and said, “I humbly accept the award on behalf of the 140 crore Indians,” dedicating it to the enduring friendship and cultural ties between the two nations. Thanking the people and government of Ghana on social media, Modi pledged, “India will always stand with the people of Ghana and continue to contribute as a trusted friend and development partner.”

According to the MEA, the national honour was conferred on Modi for his “distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership.” The award joins a list of past recipients including Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela, Kofi Annan, King Charles III (as Prince of Wales in 2018), King Mohammed VI of Morocco, and former Italian president Giorgio Napolitano.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the honour as “a testament to the deep and long-standing India-Ghana ties” on X. Earlier in the day, Modi held extensive discussions with President Mahama, culminating in the elevation of India-Ghana relations to a comprehensive partnership. Modi’s visit to Ghana marks the first stop on his five-nation tour.

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