By PTI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday 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.
In his address to the Parliament in Ghana Modi also said that progress cannot come without giving voice to the Global South.
In these times of global uncertainty Indias democratic stability shines as a ray of hope. Indias rapid progress is a catalyst for global growth. As the worlds largest democracy India is a pillar of strength for the world. A strong India will contribute to a more stable and prosperous world the prime minister said.
Noting that India is the fastest-growing emerging economy Modi said that on the foundations of stable polity and governance India will soon become the third-largest economy.
We already contribute nearly 16% to global growth. Our demography is paying its dividend. India now has the worlds third-largest start-up ecosystem. India is an innovation and technology hub where global companies want to converge he said.
The Prime Minister 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.
The world is also facing new and complex crises such as climate change pandemics terrorism and cybersecurity. Institutions created in the last century are struggling to respond. The changing circumstances demand credible and effective reforms in global governance he added.
He said progress cannot come without giving voice to the Global South. We need more than slogans. We need action. That is why during India’s G20 Presidency we worked with the vision – One Earth One Family One Future he added.
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 G20 during our Presidency he said.
The Prime Minister said India remains a committed partner in Africa’s development journey. We support Africas Development Framework Agenda 2063 to secure a bright and sustainable future for its people.
Africa’s goals are our priorities. Our approach is to grow together as equals. Our development partnership with Africa is demand-driven. It is focused on building local capacities and creating local opportunities. Our objective is not just to invest but to empower he said.
In his address Modi said it was a privilege to be in Ghana – a land that radiates the spirit of democracy dignity and resilience.
When we look at Ghana we see a nation that shines with courage that rises above history that meets every challenge with dignity and grace. Your commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress truly makes Ghana a beacon of inspiration for the entire African continent he said.
Modi who was conferred with ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’ the countrys national honour said it was a deeply moving experience and he will always cherish it. I dedicate it to the enduring friendship and shared values that bind India and Ghana he said.
India is the mother of Democracy. For us democracy is not merely a system. It is a part of our fundamental values. From thousands of years ago we have examples of centres like Vaishali he said.
Noting that the histories of India and Ghana bear the scars of colonial rule Modi said But our spirits have always remained free and fearless. We draw strength and inspiration from our rich heritage. We take pride in our social cultural and linguistic diversity.
We built nations rooted in freedom unity and dignity. Our relationship knows no bounds. And with your permission may I say our friendship is sweeter than your famous ‘Sugarloaf’ pineapple. With President Mahama we have decided to elevate our ties to a comprehensive partnership he said.
Modi said India shared vaccines and medicines with over 150 countries including Ghana during the pandemic.
He said India launched Mission LiFE – Lifestyle For Environment to address climate change and promote sustainable living. This inclusive spirit powers our global initiatives like: One World One Sun One Grid; One World One Health; for a healthier planet; International Solar Alliance;International Big Cats Alliance and the Global Biofuels Alliance; to advance clean biofuels and cut carbon emissions he said.
Modi said India has seen a major transformation in the past decade. The people of India have reposed their faith in peace security and development he said.
We are recognised as the Pharmacy of the world. Indian women today lead in science space aviation and sports. India landed on the Moon. And today an Indian is in orbit giving wings to our human space flight mission he said.
Modi said the people of India have resolved to make India a developed nation by 2047.
He said free and fair elections are the soul of any democracy. It is encouraging to see our Electoral Commissions working closely together he said.
Modi welcomed the establishment of the Ghana-India Parliamentary Friendship Society in Ghanas Parliament.
He said Ghana holds great potential to become an IT and innovation hub in the region. Together we will shape a future full of promise and progress he said.
India and Ghana share a dream. A dream where every child gets opportunities. Where every voice is heard. Where nations rise together not apart Modi said.
He said India carries Africa in its heart. Let us build a partnership not only for today but for generations to come he added.
This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over three decades.
(Only the headline has been reworked by India.com staff. Copy comes from an agency feed)