India-SA ties took centre stage as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Johannesburg for the 2025 G20 Summit, hosted in Africa for the first time.
Modi landed at Waterkloof Air Force Base on 21 November 2025.
The South African government officially welcomed him ahead of a historic weekend of global discussions.
A HEARTFELT DISPLAY OF INDIA–SA TIES
The cultural celebration unfolded later at the Sandton Sun.
At the venue, members of the Indian diaspora gathered in large numbers to greet Modi.
The venue pulsed with traditional dance performances and enthusiastic chants of his name, creating a spirited atmosphere.
Modi engaged warmly with attendees, many of whom expressed their joy at meeting him.
Sharing his gratitude, he wrote on X, “This affection reflects the enduring bond between India and South Africa.”
HISTORY THAT KEEPS COMMUNITIES CONNECTED
Modi reflected on the significance of the welcome, adding, “These ties, rooted in history and strengthened by shared values, continue to grow even stronger.”
His remarks came as South Africans recently marked 165 years since the arrival of the first Indian indentured labourers in 1860.
More than 150,000 indentured workers, followed by “free passenger Indians,” helped form a community that remains culturally rich, resilient, and influential in South Africa today.
A FULL DIPLOMATIC AND GLOBAL AGENDA
Beyond the celebrations, Modi’s Johannesburg programme remains packed.
He met Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for bilateral discussions before engaging with Naspers Group Chair Koos Bekker.
He also met officers from the Indian High Commission and Consulates, along with leaders of key community organisations and Indian-origin tech entrepreneurs.
Additionally, Modi will participate in all three G20 sessions.
The sessions focus on sustainable economic growth, climate resilience, global food systems, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals.
He will also attend the 6th IBSA Summit with Brazil and South Africa.
INDIA–SA TIES SPOTLIGHTS CULTURAL UNITY AMID GLOBAL CONVERSATIONS
Reflecting on the diaspora performances, Modi said, “This song embodies the faith and unbroken spirit of those who came here many years ago,” referring to the Tamil rendition of “Ganga Maiya.”
He added, “Witnessing this cultural connection thriving is truly admirable.”
As world leaders gather in Johannesburg, without US President Donald Trump and China’s Xi Jinping, the heartfelt welcome remains a powerful reminder of how deeply India–SA ties continue to resonate across generations.
