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PM Modi Visits Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, Namibia and Participates in BRICS summit
Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s foreign visits in July 2025 mark a significant chapter in India’s proactive global diplomacy. These engagements have reinforced bilateral ties, expanded strategic partnerships, and advanced the cause of the Global South through multilateral platforms like BRICS. His itinerary included state visits to Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, Namibia, and participation in the 17th BRICS Summit. These visits not only underscored India’s global leadership but also reflected its commitment to inclusive development, mutual growth, and international peace
Visit to Ghana
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to Accra, Ghana’s capital on 3 July marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 30 years. Received warmly by President John Dramani Mahama, the visit signified a pivotal moment in India-Africa relations, signaling a renewal of commitment to historical ties rooted in shared experiences of colonialism and a mutual desire for sustainable development.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The bilateral talks between PM Shri Narendra Modi and President Mahama were comprehensive, covering a broad spectrum of cooperation:
• Agriculture: Ghana expressed interest in Indian expertise to transform its agriculture sector. India pledged technical and entrepreneurial support to help Ghana emerge as a food-secure nation and potential food exporter in West Africa.
• Pharmaceuticals and Vaccines: President Mahama envisioned Ghana as a regional hub for vaccine production. PM Modi assured collaboration with Indian pharma firms to establish manufacturing units, given India’s proven capabilities in affordable healthcare.
• Defense Cooperation: Shared concerns over regional security threats such as terrorism and piracy led to agreements on defense training, equipment procurement, and enhanced strategic coordination.
• Critical Minerals: India expressed interest in Ghana’s reserves of critical minerals, offering investment and technical expertise in mining and processing. This is especially significant as India diversifies sources of rare minerals essential for its energy and industrial sectors.
• Digital Public Infrastructure: Highlighting India’s success with low-cost digital solutions like UPI and digital ID systems, PM Shri Modi offered to support Ghana’s digital transformation, especially in the financial and governance sectors.
Cultural and Strategic Agreements
Four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed:
1. Joint Commission on Foreign Affairs – To institutionalize diplomatic dialogue.
2. Traditional Medicine – Enhancing collaboration in AYUSH practices and training.
3. Cultural Exchange – Promoting people-to-people ties and tourism.
4. Standards and Quality Control – Ensuring harmonization of trade standards.
PM conferred the Order of the Star of Ghana
President Mahama conferred the Order of the Star of Ghana on PM Shri Modi, honoring his statesmanship and contribution to global peace. The Indian community in Ghana—over 15,000 strong—was acknowledged for its role in Ghana’s economic growth.
PM Shri Modi also paid tribute to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President and a friend of India, further emphasizing the deep-rooted historical connection between the two nations.
PM visit to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi undertook a landmark State Visit to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago from 3rd to 4th July 2025, marking the first such visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 1999. His visit was not only a reflection of
deep historical and cultural ties but also an affirmation of the growing political, economic, and strategic convergence between the two vibrant democracies. From high-level bilateral engagements to emotional interactions with the Indian diaspora, the visit elevated the India–Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) partnership to new heights.
During the visit Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was conferred with ‘The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’ – the country’s highest civilian honour.
Warm Reception and Ceremonial Welcome
Upon arrival at the Port of Spain airport, PM Modi was received with exceptional warmth by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, accompanied by her Cabinet and dignitaries. A ceremonial Guard of Honour and traditional cultural performances marked the welcome, signifying the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations. At his hotel, the Indian diaspora turned out in large numbers to greet him, reflecting their enthusiasm and emotional connection to India.
Official Talks with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar
Prime Minister Shri Modi held comprehensive bilateral discussions with PM Persad-Bissessar at the Red House, focusing on enhancing cooperation across diverse areas:
• Agriculture, Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals: India offered support in food security, health systems, and affordable medicines.
• Digital Transformation & UPI: Trinidad & Tobago showed keen interest in adopting India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and digital governance tools.
• Culture, Sports & Capacity Building: Initiatives for youth, training, and cultural exchanges were discussed.
• Climate, Cybersecurity & Disaster Management: Both leaders underlined shared concerns and the need for coordinated global action.
The leaders reaffirmed their joint commitment to combat terrorism, with PM Modi appreciating T&T’s support after the Pahalgam terror attack. They also emphasized working together to strengthen the India–CARICOM partnership and the broader cause of the Global South.
Six MoUs were signed covering:
1. Pharmacopoeia cooperation
2. Quick Impact Development Projects
3. Cultural and sports exchange
4. Diplomatic training
5. ICCR academic chairs in Hindi and Indian Studies
A special announcement was the offer of OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) cards to the 6th generation of Indian-origin citizens in T&T—a highly emotional and significant gesture.
Meeting with President Christine Carla Kangaloo
PM Modi also met President H.E. Christine Carla Kangaloo at the President’s House, reaffirming the enduring bonds of friendship. The President conferred upon PM Modi the country’s highest national honour, the Order of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago—making him the first foreign leader to receive the award. PM Modi dedicated this honour to 1.4 billion Indians, symbolizing the deep mutual respect between the nations.
President Kangaloo, herself a recipient of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, appreciated PM Modi’s visionary leadership and his commitment to strengthening India’s global role. PM Modi invited her to visit India to further nurture the relationship.
Address to the Joint Session of Parliament
In a historic first, PM Modi addressed the Joint Session of the Trinidad & Tobago Parliament, at the invitation of Senate President H.E. Wade Mark and House Speaker H.E. Jagdeo Singh. He was the first Indian Prime Minister to be accorded this honour.
PM Shri Narendra Modi’s address reflected shared democratic values, calling India the “Mother of Democracy” where democracy is a way of life. He applauded T&T’s democratic journey and called for enhanced parliamentary exchanges, symbolized by the Speaker’s Chair gifted earlier by India.
He highlighted:
• India’s 33% reservation for women in legislatures
• Over 1.5 million women leaders in local governance
• Need for Global Governance Reform
• Strengthening voice of the Global South
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi introduced India’s vision for the region through the acronym MAHASAGAR, emphasizing India’s commitment to cooperation, inclusivity, and a fairer world order.
Cultural Diplomacy and Diaspora Outreach
PM Modi’s visit was rich in cultural symbolism. During a community reception attended by over 4000 people, he was welcomed with Indo-Trinidadian traditions and performances by the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Cooperation. He acknowledged the resilience of the Indian diaspora and their role in preserving Indian traditions, particularly from eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
PM Modi presented to PM Persad-Bissessar a replica of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and holy water from the Saryu River and the Mahakumbh of Prayagraj—gifts reflecting deep spiritual bonds.
He recalled the 180-year journey of Indian-origin citizens in T&T and their contributions in shaping a pluralistic and vibrant society. As part of his vision to honour the Girmitiya community, he announced continued Indian government support for legacy preservation, scholarships, and cultural outreach.
Prime Minister’s Visit to Argentina
A Bilateral Milestone
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to Argentina on July 5 was the first
bilateral visit by an Indian PM in 57 years. Hosted by President Javier Milei, the visit re-energized India-Latin America relations, building on earlier interactions during multilateral forums like the G20.
Expanding Strategic Partnership
Several key areas of cooperation were discussed and agreed upon:
• Trade and Commerce: Both leaders agreed to enhance economic engagement and advocated for the expansion of the India-Mercosur Preferential Trade Agreement, aiming to unlock new trade and investment opportunities.
• Defense and Security: Argentina showed interest in deepening defense ties, including joint training, technology transfer, and equipment procurement. The two leaders saw convergence in strategic interests, especially in maintaining regional stability.
• Agriculture and Dairy: Given the importance of agriculture to both economies, they discussed increased market access and technology exchange. A Joint Working Group on Agriculture was planned to facilitate collaboration.
• Pharmaceuticals and Health: India offered affordable, high-quality medicines and proposed moving Indian pharma firms from Annex II to Annex I of Argentina’s regulatory framework, easing the entry of Indian drugs into the market. Cooperation on telemedicine, digital health, and capacity building was also discussed.
• Energy and Critical Minerals: With its rich reserves of lithium, copper, and shale oil, Argentina emerged as a potential partner for India’s energy transition. India expressed interest in securing long-term access to these critical resources.
• Space Cooperation: Building on past collaborations, both sides agreed to explore satellite development, launch services, and private-sector partnerships in the space domain.
Innovation, Drones, and Digital Payments
India shared its successes in:
• Drone Technologies: PM Modi highlighted India’s innovations in drone usage for agriculture, medicine delivery, and surveillance. Argentina expressed keen interest in adopting similar models, especially for managing cattle and surveillance over Exclusive Economic Zones.
• Unified Payments Interface (UPI): President Milei was impressed with India’s digital payment ecosystem. The countries agreed to explore a central bank delegation visit to study UPI’s implementation.
• Startup Collaboration: With India boasting the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, both sides discussed partnerships in technology and innovation, focusing on problem-solving through young entrepreneurs.
• Big Cat Conservation: PM Modi invited Argentina to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). Given Argentina’s ecological richness, this presents a shared conservation opportunity.
• Sports and Youth Exchange: There were talks of sports diplomacy—leveraging India’s cricketing strengths and Argentina’s football prowess—to build youth ties.
The day ended with a state luncheon hosted by President Milei and a cordial invitation from PM Modi for President Milei to visit India.
PM participates in the 17th BRICS Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio
de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 6–7, 2025. The summit was hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva under the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” PM Modi’s presence was of immense significance, especially as India prepares to assume the BRICS chairmanship in 2026. While addressing the summit PM Shri Modi said, India has always considered it a duty to rise above self interest and work towards the interest of humanity. He added, we’re fully committed to work along with the BRICS countries on all matters, and provide our constructive contributions.
The summit saw wide participation, including 11 permanent BRICS members, 9 partner countries, 8 invitee nations, and 7 heads of international organizations—making it one of the most inclusive BRICS summits to date.
Key Sessions and Interventions
1. Global Governance and Peace & Security:
PM Shri Narendra Modi emphasized the urgent need to reform multilateral institutions like the UN Security Council, IMF, World Bank, and WTO, which he noted are rooted in 20th-century frameworks and unfit for 21st-century challenges. He called for a multipolar and inclusive world order and reiterated India’s role in amplifying the voice of the Global South.
2. Terrorism:
The Prime Minister strongly condemned terrorism, referencing the recent Pahalgam terror attack as a brutal act against humanity. He urged decisive global action against those funding or harboring terrorists and commended the summit for its unified stance in condemning terrorism in all forms.
3. Multilateralism, AI, and Economic Affairs:
During discussions on economic and technological cooperation, PM Shri Modi proposed the creation of a science and research repository focusing on resilient supply chains for critical minerals and emphasized responsible development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the BRICS framework. These proposals aim to boost innovation and resource security among Global South nations.
4. Environment and Climate Commitments:
Prime Minister highlighted India’s global sustainability efforts, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Global Biofuel Alliance, and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). These initiatives underscore India’s leadership in promoting pro-planet, pro-people growth.
Significant Outcomes
Two notable paragraphs in the BRICS Summit declaration echoed India’s strategic concerns:
• Paragraph 6 emphasized the need to reform global governance bodies, affirming the active role of countries like India and Brazil in shaping a fairer world order.
• Paragraph 34 recorded the strongest-ever condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack, demonstrating broad-based support for India’s stance on counter-terrorism.
India’s advocacy for sustainable development, financial reforms, and equitable access to technology found strong resonance across member nations.
Bilateral Engagements
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Shri Modi held multiple bilateral meetings:
• Malaysia: PM Shri Modi thanked Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim for condemning the Pahalgam attack and discussed ASEAN-India strategic partnership, regional stability, and trade relations.
• Cuba: PM Modi and President Miguel Díaz-Canel discussed economic cooperation, with a special focus on India’s Unified Payment Interface (UPI) and digital public infrastructure. Cuba expressed interest in adopting India’s cost-effective digital solutions and recognized the potential of Ayurveda and Indian generic medicines in its healthcare system.
In addition, PM Shri Narendra Modi had informal meetings with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Prime Minister of Vietnam, focusing on regional cooperation and global south solidarity.
PM Modi’s participation in the 17th BRICS Summit reaffirmed India’s role as a key voice of the Global South. His forward-looking proposals on governance reforms, responsible AI, sustainable development, and cross-border digital cooperation significantly shaped the summit’s agenda. With India set to take over BRICS chairmanship in 2026, the Rio Summit laid a solid foundation for India’s leadership in promoting a more inclusive and equitable global order.
PM bilateral engagement with Brazil
After the BRICS summit, PM Shri Narendra Modi undertook a bilateral engagement
with Brazil—the first Indian PM-level state visit in 57 years. He was received by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva with ceremonial honors in Brasília.
Key Agreements and Outcomes
1. Bilateral Trade and Economic Partnership: A new trade target of $20 billion over five years was set. Brazil agreed to support India’s efforts to expand the India-MERCOSUR trade pact. Both sides committed to establishing a ministerial mechanism to monitor trade and investment.
2. Cooperation in Agriculture and Food Security: An MOU on agricultural research was signed. India and Brazil also pledged to exchange knowledge and best practices to improve food productivity and security.
3. Critical Minerals and Energy: Brazil’s reserves of lithium, copper, and rare earths align with India’s clean energy needs. Collaborative opportunities in exploration, processing, and trade were emphasized.
4. Health, Pharma, and Digital Transformation: India advocated for expedited Brazilian approval of Indian medicines already cleared by global regulators. Agreements were signed on digital transformation and renewable energy cooperation.
5. Defense and Security Cooperation: An agreement was inked on combating terrorism and organized crime. Both nations reaffirmed commitment to global peace and South-South solidarity.
6. Cultural and Technological Exchange: MOUs included cooperation in intellectual property and sharing of digital solutions. Discussions also explored sports collaboration, with a focus on cricket and football.
PM Shri Narendra Modi was conferred the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross, Brazil’s highest civilian honor for foreign dignitaries. He dedicated the award to the people of India and the India-Brazil friendship.
PM Modi’s visit to Namibia
PM Shri Modi’s visit to Namibia on July 9 was the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 27 years. The visit assumed strategic importance as Namibia recently elected a new President, ensuring continuity in ties.
Bilateral Discussions and Achievements
1. Natural Resources and Critical Minerals: India expressed interest in Namibia’s vast reserves of diamonds, lithium, copper, cobalt, and graphite. Cooperation in exploration and investment was a major agenda.
2. Agriculture and Food Security: India offered support for mechanized farming, machinery, and training to make use of Namibia’s extensive arable land for local food production and security.
3. Healthcare and Jan Aushadhi: India proposed establishing affordable medicine distribution (Jan Aushadhi) in Namibia and facilitating direct pharma supply chains from India.
4. Digital Public Infrastructure: Namibia became the first country to adopt India’s UPI system through a licensing agreement between NPCI and Namibia’s central bank—paving the way for real-time digital payments.
5. Defense and Capacity Building: India and Namibia explored defense training, equipment sourcing, and increased ITEC scholarships in both defense and civil sectors.
Agreements and Announcements
1. MOU to set up an Entrepreneurship Centre in Namibia.
2. Cooperation in health and pharmaceuticals.
3. Namibia joined the Global Biofuel Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
PM Shri Modi was awarded Namibia’s highest honor, The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis, acknowledging his contributions to global peace and development. He also addressed the Namibian Parliament and paid tribute to Dr. Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding father.