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News18
10-07-2025
- Politics
- News18
Why PM Modi's Recent Highest State Honours Reflect Global Support for Operation Sindoor
From Mediterranean to Atlantic, India's vision for a secure, equitable world has found resounding global backing, heralding a new chapter in its diplomatic and strategic leadership In a span of 24 days, from June 15 to July 9, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured with the highest civilian awards from five nations—Cyprus, Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Brazil, and Namibia. This unprecedented recognition not only celebrates PM Modi's stature as a global statesman but also underscores a resounding international endorsement of India's firm stand against terrorism, exemplified by Operation Sindoor. Through emphatic calls for zero tolerance against terror, along with strengthened defence ties and strategic cooperation in critical minerals, PM Modi's whirlwind foreign tours have reinforced India's role as a trusted leader in a multipolar world. A Historic Wave of Honours The conferment of these prestigious awards reflects India's rising global influence and Modi's personal commitment to fostering a world rooted in peace and equity. In Cyprus on June 15, President Nikos Christodoulides presented PM Modi with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, lauding his efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and global cooperation. In Ghana on July 2, President John Dramani Mahama conferred the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in over three decades. Days later, on July 4, Trinidad & Tobago's President Christine Carla Kangaloo awarded The Order of the Republic, a historic first for a foreign leader, recognizing Modi's humanitarian leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic. In Brazil on July 8, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva presented the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross, celebrating Modi's contributions to the Global South. Finally, on July 9, Namibia honoured PM Modi with the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis, raising his tally of international honours to an impressive 27. These accolades are more than ceremonial—they signal global alignment with India's vision, especially its decisive anti-terrorism stance through Operation Sindoor, a bold military operation targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. Modi's tour, spanning three continents, intertwined diplomacy, shared values, and strategic partnerships, reinforcing India's leadership in tackling global challenges. Unified Stand Against Terrorism At every stop, PM Modi delivered a clarion call for zero tolerance against terrorism, framing it as a universal threat demanding collective resolve. In Cyprus, he declared, 'Terrorism knows no borders, and we must stand together to deny it any safe haven," setting the tone for enhanced counter-terror cooperation. In Ghana, addressing Parliament on July 3, he linked India's proactive measures, including Operation Sindoor, to a shared commitment with Africa, stating, 'Terrorism is the enemy of humanity. India and Ghana will work hand in hand to uproot this menace." In Trinidad & Tobago, speaking at the Red House on July 4, Modi invoked the nation's own history of facing terror, saying, 'This very Parliament has felt the scars of terror. We must unite to ensure terrorism finds no shelter." At the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil on July 6-7, he urged, 'BRICS nations must lead with zero tolerance for those who sponsor or shelter terrorists," a stance echoed in the summit's strong anti-terror declaration. In Namibia on July 9, Modi reaffirmed, 'India's resolve is clear—Operation Sindoor sent a message: those who threaten humanity will face justice." These consistent, forceful messages resonated across diverse audiences, amplifying India's leadership in building global consensus against terrorism. The international community's recognition of Operation Sindoor as a legitimate response to cross-border threats, highlighted by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting, underscores its pivotal role in shaping this shared stand. Deepening Defence Ties PM Modi's tour significantly bolstered India's defence partnerships, positioning it as a reliable security partner. In Cyprus, discussions with President Christodoulides advanced maritime security cooperation and joint exercises in the Mediterranean, complementing India's Indo-Pacific strategy. In Ghana, the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Partnership included agreements on maritime security and defence training, with India aiding capacity-building for Ghana's forces. Trinidad & Tobago saw commitments to cybersecurity and defence training, strengthening India-CARICOM security ties. In Brazil, talks with President Lula explored collaboration on India's Akash missile system—proven effective in Operation Sindoor—and secure communication technologies, along with maintenance support for Brazil's Scorpene submarines. In Namibia, Modi's visit reinforced training programs and maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean, aligning with India's backing of African nations' security needs. These agreements reflect India's growing role as a provider of advanced defence technologies and expertise, enhancing its strategic footprint across Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Strategic Gains in Critical Minerals and Beyond Beyond defence, Modi's tour prioritised critical minerals and geostrategic cooperation, addressing India's need for secure, diversified supply chains amid China's dominance. In Cyprus, talks explored copper supplies for India's renewable energy and EV goals, alongside digital and space technology partnerships. In Ghana, agreements on critical minerals and traditional medicine aimed to double trade within five years, with India proposing secure supply chains through the Quad's mineral alliance. In Trinidad & Tobago, discussions focused on renewable energy and critical minerals, leveraging cultural ties with its large Indian-origin population to deepen economic bonds. In Brazil, Modi and Lula advanced cooperation on rare earths vital to India's green ambitions, while expanding the $12.2 billion India-MERCOSUR trade pact. In Namibia, deals on lithium and graphite supplies, along with UPI interoperability and pharmaceuticals, built on the success of India's cheetah translocation project. These partnerships position India as a counterweight to China's mineral leverage, fostering South-South cooperation and advancing Modi's vision of equitable global governance. Operation Sindoor and India's Soft Power Operation Sindoor has emerged as a cornerstone of India's global narrative, with these nations' honours signalling tacit approval of India's decisive action. On July 6 in Rio de Janeiro, the Indian diaspora welcomed Modi with a cultural performance centred on Operation Sindoor, featuring semi-classical dance to 'Saugandh Mujhe Iss Mitti Ki" and the refrain 'Ye Desh Nahi Mitne Dunga," symbolising courage and national pride. The performance, with paintings depicting the operation, was a tribute to the Armed Forces. Modi, visibly moved, praised the diaspora's efforts and their deep cultural ties. His diaspora engagements in Ghana and Trinidad & Tobago, where he announced expanded OCI card eligibility for sixth-generation Indian-origin citizens, amplified India's soft power. His push for the African Union's G20 membership and initiatives like MAHASAGAR further cemented India's leadership in the Global South. A New Era of Global Leadership top videos View all Prime Minister Modi's five-nation tour, culminating in a historic cascade of honours, marks a defining moment for India's global ascent. His firm calls for zero tolerance against terrorism, paired with strategic defence and critical mineral partnerships, have solidified India's position as a beacon of stability and progress. Accepting these honours on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, Modi has woven a narrative of resilience and unity, with Operation Sindoor as its bold centrepiece. From the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, India's vision for a secure, equitable world has found resounding global backing, heralding a new chapter in its diplomatic and strategic leadership. The writer is a national spokesperson of BJP and an author. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. tags : ghana Operation Sindoor pm narendra modi trinidad and tobago view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 10, 2025, 15:46 IST News opinion Opinion | Why PM Modi's Recent Highest State Honours Reflect Global Support for Operation Sindoor Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
10-07-2025
- Business
- News18
What PM Modi's Five-Nation Tour Achieved: Global South Ties And Countering China
A shared theme among these countries is their desire to counterbalance China—and in doing so, they find comfort in partnering with India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's whirlwind tour of five nations—Ghana, Namibia, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and Brazil—has made waves across continents. It wasn't just about the optics, or even the honours (though there were plenty). It was about reasserting India's global posture: as a committed development partner to the Global South, as a responsible voice against terrorism, and as a strategic alternative to China. A shared theme among these countries is their desire to counterbalance China—and in doing so, they find comfort in partnering with India, a nation that doesn't trigger concerns about debt traps, exploitation, or coercive diplomacy. It's that reputational dividend that is driving the wave of historic state honours, deepening economic and strategic ties, and rallying support to India against terror. Namibia: From Development to Diamonds The most recent of Modi's visits was to Namibia. Modi's arrival in Namibia marked the first visit by an Indian PM in nearly 30 years. PM Modi was received with a ceremonial welcome and a 21-gun salute. The prime minister was honoured with Namibia's highest civilian honour, again a historic moment. Remember the eight cheetahs that were translocated to India? Well, they were from the deserts of Namibia. Of course, it's not about Cheetahs this time. It's about development, democracy and diamonds. — Vikrant (@Vikspeaks1) July 9, 2025 A stable democracy in Africa, Namibia is a powerhouse of untapped natural wealth—marine diamonds, uranium, cobalt, lithium, rare earths, all of which India is interested in. These are the new currency of global diplomacy. And India wants direct access to Namibian diamonds— bypassing the expensive hubs like London and Antwerp. Indian companies have already invested $800 million in Namibia's mining sector. The visit was aimed at scaling that further. As per MEA, 'We see Namibia as more than just a supplier." And rightly so—this is a strategic relationship, not a transactional one. Namibia could become central to India's supply chain for critical minerals, helping reduce reliance on China. For a country eyeing electric vehicles, solar panels, and semiconductor sovereignty, a partnership with Namibia makes sense. Ghana: Gold, Lithium & Guard of Honour PM Modi kickstarted this 8-day tour with his visit to Ghana, a first by an Indian PM in three decades, was heavy with symbolism and substance. He was received by the Ghanaian President at the airport and welcomed with chants of 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna,". The Indian Prime Minister received the country's highest civilian award, the Order of the Star. This was a diplomatic handshake rooted in shared democratic values, a hunger for growth and a shared concern about terrorism. With a record of peaceful transfers of power, Ghana is an oasis of democracy and stability in a region fraught with coups and conflicts. It makes a natural African partner for India. Ghana, Africa's largest gold producer, is now becoming central to India's EV ambitions thanks to its lithium reserves. PM Modi made it clear: India is here to partner, not plunder. Deals were signed across fintech, defence, and culture. A notable highlight? Ghana's agreement to adopt India's UPI within six months— digital diplomacy in action. There were security concerns too. Ghana, bordering the increasingly unstable Sahel region with terrorism-stricken Burkina Faso to its north, is facing the threat of jihadi extremism. India has stepped up, offering defence cooperation, training, and cybersecurity assistance. In return, President John Mahama stood firmly with India, even condemning the Pahalgam terror attack. Ghana also supports India's bid for UNSC reform. Indian companies have already invested close to $2 billion across nearly 900 projects, and now both nations have set an ambitious goal: to double bilateral trade over the next five years. As PM Modi put it, 'India is not just a partner but a co-traveller in Ghana's journey of nation-building." In the Caribbean, it was emotion and history that took centre stage. Trinidad and Tobago, home to a large Indian diaspora (42% of its population), rolled out a uniquely personal welcome. This was the first visit by an Indian PM to T&T since 1999. But this wasn't the first time Narendra Modi was setting foot here. In 2000, he attended the World Hindu Conference in the Caribbean nation. As he landed in Port of Spain, Bhojpuri songs filled the air. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, was dressed in traditional Indian attire. Having roots in Buxar, she was hailed by PM Modi as 'Bihar ki beti." Like her ancestors, like the hundreds of thousands of other Indians were shipped to the other side of the world to Caribbean lands in 1845 as indentured labourers by the British. Since then, T&T became their home. But this diaspora has not forgotten its roots. But it wasn't all nostalgia. T&T showered its love for India on PM Modi as he was conferred with the highest civilian award of the country, the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. This was a rare and telling gesture. No global head of state before him—neither American presidents nor Commonwealth dignitaries—has been bestowed with this recognition. It was a powerful gesture underscoring India's special place in the hearts of the Caribbean nation. The symbolism extended to the very architecture of democracy—PM Modi addressed a joint sitting of Trinidad and Tobago's Parliament, standing beneath a speaker's chair gifted by India in 1968. The chair still bears the inscription: 'From the People of India to the People of Trinidad and Tobago." Beyond honours, the visit was future-facing. Trinidad became the first Caribbean nation to adopt UPI. Both sides agreed to strengthen digital and cultural cooperation. And with that, the prime minister turned to Argentina. Argentina: From Football to Fossils to Pharmaceuticals Argentina—land of Messi and Maradona, and now libertarian President Javier Milei—saw its first Indian Prime Ministerial bilateral visit in 57 years. But it couldn't have come at a more opportune time. Argentina is a key player in the global race for critical minerals like lithium and copper, and India is pivoting hard towards clean energy and tech self-sufficiency. With the world's second-largest shale gas and fourth-largest shale oil reserves, Argentina also offers energy solutions that India is actively scouting. The two countries set the stage for deeper economic integration, especially in energy, mining, and pharmaceuticals. Indian generic medicine manufacturers are likely to make inroads, offering Argentine citizens more affordable healthcare options. India also showcased UPI as a stable financial model—a timely offering for an economy battling inflation and instability. Milei, by all accounts, was intrigued. This marks the beginning of a promising relationship with key player in South America. Brazil: State Dinner, BRICS, and Defence After attending the BRICS Summit in Rio, PM Modi headed to Brasilia for a full-fledged state visit. Brazil rolled out the red carpet. Modi was conferred the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross, Brazil's highest civilian honour. The two countries set an ambitious goal, doubling bilateral trade to $20 billion in five years. Brazil is the largest diversified economy in South America, with the seventh largest GDP in the world. As a critical supplier of crude oil, rare earths, and other minerals, with substantial production capacity, Brazil becomes an important partner for India. It is a key mover in Global South politics alongside India and does it with grace, professionalism and honour, all while balancing giants like China and the US. This strategic partnership has tremendous potential. Brazil is reportedly eyeing Indian defence systems like the Akash air defence and BrahMos missiles. The interest follows India's recent defence display during Operation Sindoor. There was also a clear alignment of views against terror— zero tolerance on terrorism and no double standards. With their personal camaraderie, PM Modi and President Lula are a formidable duo worth betting on at global forums. Across continents, the themes of PM Modi's tour were strikingly consistent: Critical minerals, digital public infrastructure, led by UPI, defence cooperation and counter-terrorism, pharmaceuticals, diaspora connect and state honours showing India's rising prestige top videos View all But perhaps most important was the underlying message: India is offering the Global South an alternative. One not rooted in debt traps (as often seen with China's Belt and Road), nor coloured by colonial baggage (as with many Western powers), but in mutual growth, democratic values, and mutual respect. From the Sahel to the Southern Cross, India's foreign policy is proactive, purposeful, and deeply personal. And as the Global South looks for allies in a polarised world, New Delhi is fast becoming the partner of choice. About the Author Shubhangi Sharma Shubhangi Sharma is News Editor - Special Projects at News18. She covers foreign affairs and geopolitics, and also keeps a close watch on the national pulse of India. tags : China finepoint pm narendra modi view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 10, 2025, 14:37 IST News opinion What PM Modi's Five-Nation Tour Achieved: Global South Ties And Countering China | Finepoint Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
03-07-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Global South's voice key to contemporary world's progress: PM Modi tells Ghana's Parliament
Progress in the contemporary world will not be possible without giving a voice to the Global South, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday (3 July, 2025), addressing a joint session of Ghana's Parliament in its capital, Accra. Also read: PM Narendra Modi five-nation tour updates on July 3, 2025 Mr. Modi quoted Ghana's founding father Kwame Nkrumah, who said that Africa and India are connected by 'intrinsic' forces, in a speech outlining the widespread changes sweeping the world. 'The world order created after World War II is changing fast. The revolution in technology, the rise of the Global South, and the shifting demographics are contributing to its pace and scale. Challenges, such as colonial rule, that humanity has faced in earlier centuries still persist in different forms,' Mr. Modi said, hours after he was conferred with the Companion of the Order of the Star of Ghana, that nation's highest state honour. The Prime Minister described the honour as the 'symbol of enduring friendship' between India and Ghana, which has been a priority of India's ties with Africa since the early days of decolonisation in the 1950s. Global governance reforms 'Progress cannot come without giving voice to the Global South,' he emphasised, listing 'climate change, pandemics, terrorism, and cyber security' as the 'new and complex crises' that are posing fresh challenges to the world. 'The changing circumstances demand credible and effective reforms in global governance,' the Prime Minister said, highlighting the inclusion of the African Union into the G-20. 'We put emphasis on Africa's rightful place at the global high table. We are proud that the African Union became a permanent member of the G-20 during our Presidency,' Mr. Modi said. Uniting forces Quoting Dr. Nkrumah, Mr. Modi said, 'The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.' India is a 'pillar of strength in the world' that will stand 'shoulder to shoulder' with Ghana as it pursues its developmental goals, he vowed. This is the first speech by an Indian Prime Minister in Ghana's Parliament, with the special meeting being convened by the Speaker of the Ghanaian Parliament Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, who had visited India in 2023. Mr. Modi appreciated Ghana's parliamentary system and expressed satisfaction over the formation of the Ghana-India Parliamentary Friendship Society.
NDTV
03-07-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
PM Modi Tells Ghana MPs India Has 2,500 Political Parties, Leaves Them Stunned
Prime Minister Narendra Modi started his five-nation tour, with the first stop being Ghana, a country in West Africa with deep ties with India. The Prime Minister was conferred with Ghana's highest state honour - 'Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana'. The Prime Minister also addressed the Parliament of the country, during which he shared a fact about India that stunned the members of the house. The Prime Minister, in his address, highlighted India's diversity and the vastness of the democracy. During his speech, the Prime Minister said that there are 2,500 political parties in India, leaving the MPs stunned by the fact. The Prime Minister then said there are 22 official languages in India and thousands of dialects spoken in the country to explain the strength and uniqueness of the Indian democracy. The Prime Minister also mentioned Vaishali and the Rigveda to talk about the Indian culture, explaining why every guest is welcomed with an open heart whenever they come to India. During his address, the Prime Minister also said a strong India will contribute to a more stable and prosperous world as he pushed for credible and effective reforms in global governance in the wake of changing circumstances. "As the world's largest democracy, India is a pillar of strength for the world. A strong India will contribute to a more stable and prosperous world," Prime Minister Modi, who is here on a two-day visit, said. Noting that India is the fastest-growing emerging economy, Modi said that on the foundations of a stable polity and governance, India will soon become the third-largest economy. Prime Minister Modi underlined that the world order created after World War II is changing fast. "The revolution in technology, the rise of the Global South and the shifting demographics are contributing to its pace and scale," he said, adding that the changing circumstances demand credible and effective reforms in global governance. From Ghana, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Trinidad and Tobago on a two-day visit from July 3 to 4. In the third leg of his visit, Modi will visit Argentina from July 4 to 5. In the fourth leg of his visit, the Prime Minister will travel to Brazil to attend the 17th BRICS summit, followed by a state visit. In the final leg of his visit, he will travel to Namibia.
United News of India
03-07-2025
- Politics
- United News of India
PM Modi dedicates top Ghanaian honour to the youth, historical ties between both nations
Accra/New Delhi, July 3 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked the people and government of Ghana for conferring on him the nation's top honour - Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana – and said the honour is dedicated to the bright future of the youth of both countries, their aspirations, and the rich cultural diversity and historical ties between India and Ghana. The PM was conferred the honour by President John Dramani Mahama yesterday in recognition of his distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership, at the Jubilee House in Accra. He said the honour is also a responsibility to keep working towards stronger India-Ghana friendship. In a post on X, he said: 'I thank the people and Government of Ghana for conferring 'The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana' upon me. "This honour is dedicated to the bright future of our youth, their aspirations, our rich cultural diversity and the historical ties between India and Ghana.' 'This honour is also a responsibility; to keep working towards stronger India-Ghana friendship. India will always stand with the people of Ghana and continue to contribute as a trusted friend and development partner.' In his remarks after being conferred the top honour, the PM said: "It is a matter of immense pride and honor for me to be conferred with Ghana's national award, the 'Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana,' by the President. "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Mahama, the Government of Ghana, and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honor on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians. "I dedicate this award to the aspirations of our youth, their bright future, our rich cultural diversity and traditions, and the historic ties between India and Ghana." Prime Minister affirmed he was confident that his historic State Visit to Ghana would impart a new momentum to India-Ghana ties. The PM arrived last evening on a two-day state visit to Ghana and was welcomed at the airport by President Mahama, in a rare gesture. PM Modi's visit is the first by an Indian prime minister in three decades. UNI RN
