GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 18th Sept: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed his gratitude to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for extending warm wishes on his 75th birthday, underlining the enduring partnership between India and South Africa and their joint vision for advancing the interests of the Global South.
“Thank you for your kind wishes President Cyril Ramaphosa. India and South Africa are steadfast partners with shared commitment to work together for the Global South,” PM Modi posted on X, formerly Twitter, shortly after Ramaphosa’s greeting.
Warm Words from Pretoria
In his congratulatory message, President Ramaphosa praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.
“Allow me to extend my warmest wishes to Your Excellency PM Narendra Modi on the occasion of your 75th birthday. May this year be prosperous in both your personal and professional endeavours,” he said.
Ramaphosa added that he hoped the bond of solidarity and friendship between the two countries would continue to flourish “under your inspirational leadership.” He also wished the Prime Minister continued good health and success in his role.
A Historic Bond
The warm exchange between the two leaders highlights the historic relationship between India and South Africa, shaped by shared struggles, values, and aspirations.
India’s connection to South Africa dates back over a century, when Mahatma Gandhi launched his Satyagraha movement on South African soil, laying the foundation for India’s later role in championing justice and equality globally.
During the apartheid era, India stood firmly with the South African people. In 1946, it became the first country to sever trade relations with the apartheid regime and later imposed a complete embargo on diplomatic, commercial, cultural, and sporting ties. India also played a leading role in international forums like the United Nations, keeping the fight against apartheid high on the global agenda until the system was dismantled.
Today, the two countries are close partners in multilateral forums such as BRICS, the G20, and the India-Africa Forum, where they collaborate on issues ranging from climate change and trade to global governance reforms.
Shared Vision for the Global South
Both Modi and Ramaphosa have consistently spoken about strengthening the voice of the Global South, emphasizing inclusive development, equitable trade systems, and cooperation on emerging technologies. Thursday’s exchange of greetings further reinforced this commitment.
Diplomatic observers note that such symbolic gestures of goodwill often pave the way for deeper cooperation in trade, defence, renewable energy, and cultural exchanges.
Wishes Pour in Worldwide
Apart from President Ramaphosa, several world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, US President Donald Trump, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, extended their greetings to PM Modi on his milestone birthday.
In response, Modi said he was “overwhelmed by the pouring of wishes from home and overseas,” adding that the support and affection he received inspire him to serve the nation with renewed energy and dedication.
Looking Ahead
As India positions itself as a global player, its partnership with South Africa is expected to gain even more strategic significance. The exchange of warm words on Modi’s 75th birthday stands as a reminder of how personal diplomacy often reinforces the broader vision of cooperation between nations.
