Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed heartfelt gratitude after receiving an exuberant welcome from the Indian community upon his arrival in Johannesburg on Friday for the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
The vibrant reception underscored the strong cultural ties that continue to bind India and South Africa.
Indian expatriates staged ‘Rhythms of a United India’, a colourful programme featuring folk dances from 11 Indian states. The event showcased the community’s sustained connection to its heritage, which PM Modi lauded as ‘commendable’.
In a message shared on X, the Prime Minister said he was ‘deeply touched’ by the affection shown by the diaspora.
He highlighted how young performers recited the Ganapati Prarthana, Shanti Mantra and other devotional hymns. He said their performance captured the spiritual essence of India on foreign soil.
PM Modi noted that the cultural connection between India and South Africa is truly heartwarming and timeless, and he emphasised that shared values and history strengthen these ties.
Before reaching Johannesburg, officials in Pretoria warmly received PM Modi at the airport ahead of the 20th G20 Leaders’ Summit.
The annual gathering will take place on 22–23 November. It will draw leaders from across the globe for discussions on global challenges and developmental priorities.
PM Modi said he looked forward to ‘productive discussions’ with world leaders. He also highlighted India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation and shaping a more secure and prosperous global future.
The Prime Minister will hold several bilateral meetings with visiting heads of state on the sidelines of the Summit.
The engagements will focus on strengthening strategic partnerships, boosting global economic stability, and advancing collaborative development initiatives.
As the G20 deliberations begin, PM Modi’s warm interaction with the Indian community in South Africa has stood out. It has set an upbeat tone for India’s presence at the global forum.
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