Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku- Agyemang, last Thursday led the visiting Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, on a tour of the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and the Parliament House in Accra.The visit marked an important moment in the growing friendship between Ghana and India as the two leaders expressed a strong desire to deepen the relationship between their countries.Prime Minister Modi addressing the house said India had decided to elevate its ties with Ghana to build a stronger partnership based on shared democratic values and mutual respect.He noted that Ghana and India both believed in democracy, freedom of speech, human rights, and the rule of law.These shared values, he said, provided a strong base to work closely together, not just for the benefit of both countries, but also for the wider Global South.Prime Minister Modi invited Ghanaian leaders to visit India's new Parliament building and continue the dialogue between lawmakers from both nations.Such exchanges, he said, would help both countries learn from each other and strengthen their democratic systems.He said that the Global South should have a bigger voice in global affairs and called for reforms in international institutions.He pointed out that many of these bodies were shaped during colonial times and no longer reflected today's realities.The Prime Minister highlighted how India focused on the Global South, making sure the voices of smaller and developing nations were heard.He noted India's role during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it shared vaccines with many countries, including those in Africa."India is committed to working with Africa to achieve the goals set out in the African Union's Agenda 2063.
This agenda is a broad plan that focuses on transforming the continent through inclusive growth and sustainable development.""India's partnership with Africa is focused on creating local opportunities and building skills within communities.
This includes helping with education, healthcare, and digital tools," he said.The Prime Minister said India was ready to support Ghana's efforts to grow its economy and connect more closely with the rest of Africa. BY AGNES OPOKU-SARPONG
