The Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has called for a comprehensive partnership between Ghana and India to allow the two countries to grow together for the benefit of their citizens.
He said the two countries shared a common dream and future, a reason they must rise together and not apart in their development aspirations.
“We must build a dream where every child gets opportunities and where every voice is heard and where our nations rise together, not apart,” he said.
We shall walk with you
Addressing the Parliament of Ghana last Thursday, Mr Modi told members that India has decided to elevate Ghana-India ties to a comprehensive partnership.
“India carries Ghana and Africa in its heart and let us build a partnership, not only for today but for generations to come.
“As Ghana continues to pursue the path of progress and prosperity, India shall walk with you, shoulder to shoulder on this road,” he assured.
Present in Parliament were the Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Council of State members, the diplomatic corps, representatives of political parties, independent constitutional bodies, civil society organisations and the Indian community in Ghana.
Committed partners
The Prime Minister said India’s rapid progress was a catalyst for global growth.
As the world’s largest democracy, India is a pillar of strength for the world.
He said a strong India would contribute to a more stable and prosperous world. “After all, our mantra means together, for everyone’s growth, with everyone’s trust and effort, and India remains a committed partner in Africa’s development journey.
“We support Africa’s Development Framework Agenda 2063 to secure a bright and sustainable future for its people,” he said.
Describing Africa’s goals as India’s priority, he said his country’s approach was to grow together with Ghana and Africa at large as equals.
“Our development partnership with Africa is demand-driven, and it is focused on building local capacities and creating local opportunities.
“Our objective is not just to invest but to empower and to help develop self-sustaining ecosystems,” he said.
Expressing a commitment to further give momentum to Ghana and Africa’s partnership, he said India had expanded its diplomatic presence to 46 countries across Africa.
He also said there were currently over 200 projects across the continent to enhance connectivity, infrastructure and industrial capacity.
Collaboration
Every year, he said, the India-Africa Business Conference generated new opportunities.
In Ghana, he said the Tema-Mpakadan railway line was inaugurated last year, describing the project as the largest infrastructure project in the African sub-region.
“We welcome Ghana’s own efforts to accelerate economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“Ghana also holds great potential to become an IT and innovation hub in the region, and together, we will shape a future full of promise and progress,” he said.
To stress the point that free and fair elections were the soul of any democracy, Mr Modi said it was encouraging to see the Electoral Commissions in Ghana and India working closely together.
“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.
“Parliamentary exercises are also a cornerstone of the relationship between our two democracies,” he said.
Ghana a beacon of inspiration
He told the House that he was privileged to be in Ghana, a land that radiated the spirit of democracy, dignity and resilience.
As the representative of the world’s largest democracy, he said he brought the goodwill and greetings of 1.4 billion Indians.
Mr Modi said Ghana was known as the land of gold, not just for what lay under the people’s sight but as much for the “warmth and strength in your heart”.
“When we look at Ghana, we see a nation that shines with courage, that rises above history, that meets every challenge with dignity and grace.
“Your commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress truly makes Ghana a beacon of inspiration for the entire African continent,” he said.
With a deeply moving experience, he said receiving Ghana’s national award from “my dear friend, President Mahama” was an honour.
He dedicated the honour to the enduring friendship and shared values that bound India and Ghana.
Our relationship knows no bounds
Paying tribute to Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s vision and statesmanship, Mr Modi quoted Ghana’s first President as saying, “The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart”.
