“India Ready to Double Trade, Share UPI with Ghana,” Says PM Modi
GG News Bureau
Accra, 3rd July: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his first visit to Ghana in three decades by an Indian premier, announced the elevation of India-Ghana ties to a Comprehensive Partnership. Addressing the media alongside Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, PM Modi outlined a wide-ranging bilateral agenda encompassing trade, defence, agriculture, and digital cooperation.
Warmly welcomed by President Mahama at Accra’s Jubilee House, Modi described Ghana as a “Beacon of Hope” in West Africa and reaffirmed India’s enduring support in its development journey.
“In Ghana’s nation-building journey, India is not just a supporter, but a fellow traveller,” said PM Modi.
Trade and Investment
India and Ghana set a target to double bilateral trade — currently over $3 billion — within the next five years. Indian companies have invested nearly $2 billion in over 900 projects across Ghana. PM Modi offered India’s digital public infrastructure expertise, including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), to strengthen Ghana’s FinTech ecosystem.
Development, Education & Health
The PM announced a doubling of ITEC and ICCR scholarships for Ghanaian students and committed to establishing a Skill Development Centre to support youth vocational training. India also pledged cooperation in Ghana’s “Feed Ghana” programme, and proposed setting up Jan Aushadhi Kendras to provide affordable healthcare. The countries also discussed vaccine production collaboration.
Defence & Critical Minerals
India and Ghana agreed to expand defence ties under the theme “Security through Stability”, covering armed forces training, maritime security, defence supplies, and cyber security. Modi also highlighted cooperation in exploration of critical minerals by Indian firms.
Clean Energy & Global South
India invited Ghana to join the Global Biofuels Alliance and reiterated support for Ghana’s renewable energy goals. Both leaders expressed alignment on global issues including UN reforms, terrorism, and ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Europe.
“We are united in our view that terrorism is the enemy of humanity,” said Modi, stressing the importance of dialogue over conflict.
Community Ties
Modi lauded the contributions of the Indian community in Ghana, especially teachers, doctors, and engineers, and expressed excitement about his upcoming interaction with the diaspora.
He concluded by inviting President Mahama to visit India and thanked the people of Ghana for their warm hospitality, calling the visit a historic step in deepening India-Africa ties.
