Accra– In a heartfelt display of admiration for India and its culture, two members of Ghana’s Parliament donned traditional Indian attire during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic address to the legislative body on Thursday.
As Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin concluded the session following PM Modi’s speech, he took note of the special gesture. One male MP was seen wearing a pagdi (traditional Indian turban) and a bandhgala (closed-neck coat), while a female MP proudly stood to reveal her Indian-style outfit, drawing applause from fellow lawmakers and guests—including PM Modi himself.
“I can see the honorable member is eager to visit India,” Speaker Bagbin said, smiling. “Let me assure you, I won’t hesitate to approve your trip. And I see he’s not alone—he has a partner. I thank both members for showing their deep appreciation for India, its people, and its culture.”
The event was attended by prominent Ghanaian leaders, members of the Council of State, diplomats, representatives from political parties, constitutional bodies, civil society organizations, and members of Ghana’s Indian community.
“It is an honor to be in Ghana—a country that embodies democracy, dignity, and resilience,” PM Modi said in his address. “As the representative of the world’s largest democracy, I bring the goodwill of 1.4 billion Indians. Ghana is known as the ‘land of gold,’ not only for its natural resources but for the strength and warmth of its people. Your nation stands tall with courage and grace, meeting every challenge with dignity. Ghana’s dedication to democratic values and inclusive progress makes it a true inspiration for the African continent.”
PM Modi also reiterated India’s strong and growing partnership with Africa, aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
“Africa’s priorities are India’s priorities,” he said. “Our approach is one of equality and mutual respect. India’s development partnerships across Africa are demand-driven, aimed at building local capacity and creating opportunity. Our goal isn’t just to invest—but to empower. To help foster self-sustaining ecosystems.”
Earlier in the day, Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama awarded Prime Minister Modi the nation’s highest civilian honor, Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, recognizing his distinguished global leadership and efforts to deepen the India-Ghana relationship.
Accepting the honor on behalf of the people of India, PM Modi dedicated it to the aspirations of Indian youth, the country’s rich cultural traditions, and the historic bonds between India and Ghana.
The award marks the 24th international honor conferred upon PM Modi by a foreign government—underscoring his global stature. Analysts noted that no previous Indian Prime Minister has achieved such widespread international recognition, highlighting Modi’s unique role as a global statesman committed to peace, development, and spiritual diplomacy.
Following the award ceremony, the two leaders held extensive talks—both one-on-one and with their respective delegations—ultimately agreeing to upgrade bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Partnership. (Source: IANS)
