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From Ghana to Trinidad, PM Modi set to connect with Indian community globally

From Ghana to Trinidad, PM Modi set to connect with Indian community globally

India Today2 days ago
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's five-nation tour from July 2 to 9, 2025, reflects a renewed thrust in India's engagement with the Global South, with a strong emphasis on reconnecting with the Indian community and building partnerships rooted in shared democratic values, economic collaboration, and historical ties. From West Africa to Latin America and the Caribbean, PM Modi's visit will not only mark diplomatic milestones but also celebrate the enduring presence of the Indian community abroad.advertisementIn Ghana, the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 30 years will spotlight India's longstanding ties with one of Africa's oldest democracies. PM Modi will address the Ghanaian Parliament and interact with the Indian community, which numbers over 15,000.His discussions with President John Dramani Mahama will focus on agriculture, vaccines, digital public infrastructure and defence, while trade and investment partnerships - currently valued at $3 billion and $2 billion respectively - are expected to deepen through several MOUs.
In Trinidad and Tobago, PM Modi's visit will be infused with cultural resonance as the country marks the 180th anniversary of Indian arrival. Nearly half of the country's population is of Indian origin, and both the President and Prime Minister trace their ancestry to India. During this first visit by an Indian PM since 1999, PM Modi will address the Parliament, participate in a large Indian community gathering, and discuss collaborations in renewable energy, agriculture, and digital services. The visit aims to bolster development cooperation with the Caribbean region, particularly among Small Island Developing States.advertisementThe visit to Argentina - the first in 57 years by an Indian PM - comes at a time of sweeping economic reforms in the South American nation. His talks with President Javier Milei will explore new areas of energy and mineral collaboration, including lithium, copper, shale oil, and gas. With India already active through state-owned mining operations in Catamarca, the visit will broaden cooperation into areas such as space technology, defence production, and digital innovation, all while strengthening India's role as a strategic partner in Latin America.In Brazil, PM Modi will participate in the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, themed around inclusive global governance. As the only leader to attend four BRICS summits in Brazil, his engagement will include discussions on artificial intelligence, climate finance, and reforming global institutions. He will also hold a bilateral meeting with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Brasilia, focusing on defence, renewable energy, and expanding the India-MERCOSUR trade agreement. With trade valued at $12.2 billion, Brazil is India's largest Latin American partner.The final leg of the tour will take PM Modi to Namibia on July 9, the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 27 years. The trip celebrates India's historic support for Namibia's freedom movement and opens new pathways in areas like pharmaceuticals, UPI-based digital payments, critical minerals, and hydrocarbons. The successful translocation of cheetahs from Namibia to India will also feature in the bilateral talks. PM Modi will address the Namibian Parliament and meet President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, reinforcing India's commitment to Africa ahead of the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit.advertisementThroughout the journey, Modi is expected to interact extensively with the Indian community, highlighting the vital role played by overseas Indians in bridging cultures and advancing India's global presence. The tour not only solidifies India's strategic footprint across continents but also positions the country as a leader in shaping a more equitable world order. As India prepares to chair BRICS in 2026, the visit amplifies its voice as a representative of developing nations and a driver of South-South cooperation.- Ends
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