India’s Rising Global Role: PM Modi’s Vision for the Global South from Ghana

In a historic address to Ghana’s Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid out a compelling vision of a strong and dynamic India playing a pivotal role in fostering global stability, prosperity, and reform. His visit to Ghana, a key partner in Africa, highlighted India’s commitment to the Global South’s emergence as a significant voice in the international order.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the Parliament of the Republic of Ghana.(@NarendraModi) | Hindustan Times

India’s Economic Dynamism and Global Impact

Prime Minister Modi’s speech emphasized India’s rapid economic growth, which has made the country the fastest-growing major economy in the world. Backed by a democratic governance system and a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, India is poised to become the third-largest economy globally in the near future. Modiji’s remarks drew attention to India’s burgeoning technological advances and its reputation as the “Pharmacy of the world,” reflecting its leadership in affordable medicines and vaccine production.

The Prime Minister highlighted India’s remarkable demographic dividend, with a young and increasingly skilled workforce fueling innovation across sectors such as information technology, space research, and manufacturing. India’s growing contribution—estimated at nearly 16 percent of global GDP growth—showcases its expanding role in shaping the economic landscape worldwide.

Advocating for the Global South in International Governance

A central theme of Modiji’s address was the urgent need to reform global institutions established in the aftermath of World War II, which no longer adequately represent the voices and aspirations of the Global South. India, alongside countries like Ghana, must play a leading role in reshaping these institutions to address modern challenges, including climate change, cyber security threats, pandemics, and terrorism.

During India’s recent presidency of the G20, the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member marked a milestone toward more inclusive and equitable global governance. Modiji called this a pivotal step in ensuring that developing countries gain a stronger, more respected voice on the world stage, signaling a new era of South-South cooperation and solidarity.

Strengthening India–Ghana Bilateral Relations

Modiji’s visit also underscored the deepening partnership between India and Ghana. Announcing the elevation of ties to a “Comprehensive Partnership,” he highlighted cooperation across diverse areas such as trade, defense, technology, digital governance, healthcare, agriculture, and cybersecurity. Trade between the two nations has already crossed the $3 billion mark, with ambitious plans to double this figure in the coming years.

India is actively supporting Ghana’s development by sharing successful models like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which can revolutionize Ghana’s digital payments landscape. Additionally, the extension of the Jan Aushadhi scheme—India’s generic medicine initiative—along with vaccine production collaborations, exemplify India’s commitment to improving healthcare accessibility in Ghana.

Beyond economics and technology, India is investing in human capital by expanding vocational training centers and scholarship programs for Ghanaian youth. Defense and security cooperation is also being strengthened, with India offering expertise in maritime security, cybersecurity, and military training. This multi-dimensional partnership reflects a shared vision for sustainable development and regional stability.

Shared Heritage and Cultural Bonds

PM Modi’s speech paid homage to the common historical experiences of India and Ghana, particularly their shared struggle against colonialism. Despite the challenges of imperial legacies, both nations have nurtured resilient democracies grounded in pluralism and freedom. Modiji warmly referenced the cultural ties that bind the two countries, humorously noting that their friendship was “sweeter than Sugar‑Loaf Pineapple,” a nod to Ghana’s famed tropical fruit and the warmth of bilateral relations.

During the visit, Modiji was honored with the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the country’s second-highest civilian award. He dedicated this prestigious recognition to the 1.4 billion people of India, especially its youth, who embody the spirit of progress and hope. His remarks on India’s democratic vibrancy—highlighting over 2,500 political parties and 22 official languages—captivated Ghanaian parliamentarians, illustrating India’s unparalleled diversity and unity.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Global South Leadership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ghana marks a significant milestone in India’s diplomatic outreach and global leadership ambitions. His address in the Ghanaian Parliament articulated a vision of partnership and mutual empowerment between India and African nations, reinforcing the importance of inclusive governance, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.

India’s robust economic growth, technological innovation, and democratic values position it as a key pillar in the evolving global order. By championing the cause of the Global South, India is helping reshape international institutions to reflect contemporary realities, ensuring that voices from emerging economies are heard and respected.

The strengthened India–Ghana partnership exemplifies the broader possibilities for collaboration between Asia and Africa, rooted in historical ties and aimed at building a prosperous future for all. As India and Ghana work together on trade, technology, healthcare, and security, they set a compelling example for South-South cooperation that could inspire similar initiatives worldwide.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, NDTV)