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