Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ghanaian President John Mahama recently agreed to strengthen security and mining ties, marking the first visit by an Indian leader to Ghana in three decades.
This visit underscores India’s growing engagement with Africa, where it competes with other global powers for economic influence.
During a joint news conference, Prime Minister Modi highlighted increased cooperation in military training, maritime security, defense supply, and cybersecurity.
The leaders also addressed pressing regional and international concerns, including heightened jihadist offensives in the Sahel region.
Both nations committed to bolstering their counter-terrorism efforts.
Ghana, a resource-rich nation and a beacon of democratic stability, serves as a crucial partner for India.
India is already one of Ghana’s primary trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching \$3.1 billion in 2024–2025.
Modi pledged Indian companies’ support for critical mineral exploration and mining in Ghana.
The discussions also covered potential cooperation in vaccine production.
Modi lauded Ghana’s role in regional blocs like the African Union (AU) and ECOWAS.
He also celebrated the AU’s permanent membership in the G20, achieved during India’s G20 presidency in 2023.
This move positions India as a key representative for countries outside traditional power blocs, showcasing Africa as a significant theater for global competition among various world powers.
Ghana was the initial stop on Modi’s multi-country tour, which includes visits to Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil for the BRICS summit, and Namibia.
This extensive diplomatic outreach highlights India’s strategic push to expand its influence and partnerships across diverse regions.
