The North News
New Delhi, July 3
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Parliament of Ghana on Thursday, declared that India is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy in the near future and stressed that a stronger India would mean a more stable and prosperous world. In a wide-ranging speech that blended economic ambition with philosophical reflection, Modi portrayed India as a global force rooted in democratic values and cultural openness. “India is the mother of democracy,” he said. “For us, democracy is not merely a system; it is a part of our fundamental values.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today became the first Indian leader to address a special session of Ghana’s Parliament, marking a historic moment in the diplomatic ties between the two democracies.
The session, convened by Speaker Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, was attended by Members of Parliament, government officials, and dignitaries from both nations. Modi’s speech highlighted the shared democratic values and historic solidarity between India and Ghana, forged during their respective struggles for independence.
Addressing lawmakers in Accra, the Indian Prime Minister expressed deep gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and the people of Ghana for conferring on him a National Honour, calling it a symbol of enduring friendship and mutual respect.
“India and Ghana are bound by history, democracy, and a common vision for inclusive development,” Modi said. He invoked the legacy of Ghana’s independence hero, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, quoting his words: “The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.”
Modi drew parallels between the two nations’ democratic journeys, noting India’s commitment to pluralism and diversity as the “Mother of Democracy.” He described India’s democratic system as deeply rooted in its culture, with over 2,500 political parties, 22 official languages, and thousands of dialects forming the fabric of its governance.
The Prime Minister also used the platform to call for greater unity among Global South nations, especially on challenges such as climate change, terrorism, pandemics, and cybersecurity. He reaffirmed India’s support for Africa’s rising global role, citing the recent inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 during India’s presidency.
Modi praised Ghana’s vibrant parliamentary tradition and welcomed the formation of the Ghana-India Parliamentary Friendship Society. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to working closely with Ghana, stating that India would stand “shoulder to shoulder” with the West African nation in its pursuit of prosperity.
