Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has delivered a landmark address on the floor of Ghana’s Parliament, reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions through closer parliamentary cooperation with Ghana
The speech, delivered during his historic two-day state visit, underscored the importance of shared democratic values, mutual development aspirations, and south-south cooperation between the two nations.
Ghana-India Parliamentary Friendship Society
Prime Minister Modi lauded the establishment of the Ghana-India Parliamentary Friendship Society within Ghana’s legislative body, describing it as an important step toward fostering stronger inter-parliamentary engagement.
“I invite you to visit the new Parliament of India,” he said, referencing India’s recently inaugurated legislative complex. “You will be able to see the bold steps we have taken to reserve one-third of seats in the Indian Parliament and state assemblies for women.”
He emphasized that such measures reflect India’s commitment to inclusive governance and could serve as a model for emerging democracies seeking to enhance representation.
Democracy, debate and the spirit of the Black Stars
Modi encouraged Ghanaian lawmakers to witness firsthand the vibrancy of Indian parliamentary proceedings, noting the similarities in political energy between both nations.
“I assure you they are as spirited and passionate as the game of your beloved Black Stars,” he said, drawing a parallel between the fervour of Ghana’s national football team supporters and the debates that animate Indian democracy.
He highlighted the 2023 Commonwealth Parliamentary Association meeting held in Accra as a pivotal moment in inter-parliamentary exchange and recalled India’s largest-ever parliamentary delegation to Ghana, which included state-level legislators.
“We deeply value such vibrant dialogue,” he stated.
Electoral Commissions as anchors of democracy
The Indian Prime Minister underscored the role of independent electoral bodies in sustaining democracy, pointing to the collaboration between the electoral commissions of India and Ghana as an encouraging development.
“Free and fair elections are the soul of any democracy,” Modi noted.
“It is encouraging to see our electoral commissions working closely together.”
He expressed India’s readiness to support Ghana’s electoral processes through technical cooperation and knowledge exchange, stating, “I am confident that India’s Election Commission will be honoured to share its experience in conducting the world’s largest elections with full trust and transparency.”
Shared vision of opportunity and unity
Drawing from Ghana’s own legacy of Pan-African leadership, Modi echoed the words of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah: “I am not African because I was born in Africa, but because Africa was born in me.”
“In the same way,” Modi added, “India carries Africa in its heart. Let us build a partnership, not only for today, but for generations to come.”
He described a common dream shared by both countries—of inclusive development, equal opportunity for every child, and societies where “every voice is heard and where nations rise together, not apart.”
Strengthening South-South cooperation
India’s diplomatic relations with Ghana date back to 1953, when it established a consulate in Accra, years before Ghana attained independence.
Since then, the relationship has evolved to include collaboration in trade, education, technology, agriculture, and health.
Modi’s visit represents a significant milestone in this trajectory, signaling a new chapter in India-Ghana relations and affirming both countries’ commitment to a dynamic strategic partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared goals.
