In a landmark moment during his official tour, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Parliament of Ghana on July 3, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so in over thirty years. His speech focused on India’s democratic traditions, its rich cultural diversity, and the shared values between the two nations.
Describing Ghana as a land that radiates the spirit of democracy, Prime Minister Modi emphasised that democracy in India is not merely a political system but a fundamental cultural value. His remarks highlighted the deep-rooted commitment to democratic ethos, openness, and inclusive governance that both countries uphold.
Today, I had the honour of addressing the Parliament of Ghana. I spoke of the deep ties between our nations and our shared values. India and Ghana stand united in our pursuit of progress and prosperity. pic.twitter.com/4U5XCYUIUr
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 3, 2025
In a light-hearted yet striking moment, Modi mentioned that India is home to over 2,500 political parties. The statement sparked murmurs and smiles across the chamber, with the Prime Minister pausing to reiterate the figure, prompting laughter and a wave of surprise among the Ghanaian parliamentarians. The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, later repeated the number with a smile, eliciting more laughter and reinforcing the moment’s warmth and camaraderie
The Prime Minister delivered his address in English, drawing attention to India’s cultural and linguistic diversity as one of its greatest democratic strengths. He noted that 20 different political parties govern India’s various states and that the country recognises 22 official languages along with thousands of dialects. This diversity, he said, has enabled India to welcome people with open hearts and has helped Indians integrate seamlessly across the globe.
Five Nation Tour: PM Modi gets Hare Rama Hare Krishna welcome in Ghana, bags top honour, signs 4 MoUs, plans UPI push
By: Vishnu Aravind@narendramodi #NarendraModi #Ghana https://t.co/1g2dI3TOfg
— Organiser Weekly (@eOrganiser) July 3, 2025
Modi underlined the role of democracy in uniting people, supporting human dignity, and promoting human rights. He referred to India as the mother of democracy and reaffirmed the view that true democracy encourages debate, discussion, and mutual respect.
He also addressed global challenges, including climate change, pandemics, terrorism, and cybersecurity. He stated that institutions built in the previous century are struggling to respond effectively to today’s complex crises, and that credible reforms in global governance are urgently required. Referring to India’s recent G20 presidency, he said that India worked with the vision of ‘one Earth, one family, one future,’ and championed Africa’s rightful place in global decision-making. He expressed pride in the African Union becoming a permanent member of the G20 during India’s tenure.
Following the address, Prime Minister Modi personally greeted Ghanaian MPs and shook hands with many, marking a symbolic gesture of friendship between the two democracies.
India’s democracy shines as a ray of hope. India is a pillar of strength for the world. pic.twitter.com/CJjdl8TeGy
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 3, 2025
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi was conferred with Ghana’s highest civilian honour, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, by President John Dramani Mahama. The Prime Minister dedicated the honour to the aspirations and bright future of the youth in both India and Ghana, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs.
The visit to Ghana is part of Prime Minister Modi’s ongoing five-nation tour across Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. After Ghana, he will travel to Trinidad and Tobago for a two-day visit from July 3 to 4, followed by Argentina on July 4 and 5. He is also scheduled to attend the 17th BRICS summit in Brazil and conclude the diplomatic mission with a state visit to Namibia.
