Accra, October 7 (Daily Kiran) : Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar addressed a special gathering at the Foreign Service Institute in Accra, Ghana, on October 7. He emphasized India’s deep-rooted connection with Africa, asserting that the country aims to forge partnerships that will benefit not just the present but also future generations.
During a seminar focused on Africa and the Global South, Jaishankar highlighted the challenges of diplomacy in today’s tumultuous global environment. He stated, “In this era of upheaval, the challenge for diplomacy is to manage competition without turning it into confrontation, while also promoting cooperation despite differing interests.”
The minister elaborated on India’s ambitions, methodologies, and the story of its self-confidence. He noted that transformations in the economy, infrastructure, digital sectors, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship are positioning India as a crucial engine of global development.
Jaishankar pointed out that national security is closely linked to supply chain resilience, technological capabilities, and the capacity to produce essential goods. He underscored India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation across various sectors while also valuing self-reliance in critical areas.
He stressed the importance of transforming the youth population of both India and Africa into productive, skilled, and empowered citizens. “Our scientific and technological strengths are continuously growing, showcasing our vision, commitment, and ability to work efficiently at lower costs,” he remarked. He added that the benefits of technology should reach everyone and emphasized the necessity of strengthening supply chains for fuel, food, fertilizers, and finance.
Reiterating India’s foreign policy perspective based on strategic autonomy, Jaishankar stated, “We believe that partnerships should expand our options, not limit them.” He reaffirmed India’s commitment to amplifying the voice of the Global South, as evidenced by the inclusion of the African Union during India’s G20 presidency.
Jaishankar outlined India’s vision for an improved global order that supports the development, progress, and prosperity of Africa and the Global South. He highlighted the robust partnership between India and Africa, encompassing trade, infrastructure, capacity building, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, agriculture, health, and clean energy.
Concluding his address, Jaishankar praised the Indian community and friends of India in Ghana for their efforts to strengthen partnerships between the two nations. He, along with Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Education Minister Haruna Idris, planted a frangipani tree, symbolizing India’s “One Tree for Mother” initiative and Ghana’s “Tree for Life” campaign.
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