Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], November 21 : Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday said on X that the grand welcome accorded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg reflects India's rising global stature.
Dhami posted, "The grand welcome accorded to the Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji at the G20 Leaders Summit held in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a vivid testament to India's growing stature and respect on the global stage."
"Under the unparalleled leadership of Prime Minister Modi ji, India is today steadfastly advancing towards development, self-reliance, and becoming a world guru. This scene of his global popularity and India's emerging power is a moment of pride for the entire nation," the X post read further.
Meanwhile, during his visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed vibrant cultural performances by members of the Indian diaspora. He was greeted with the Tamil rendition of the Girmitiya song 'Ganga Maiya,' along with Ganapati Prarthana, Shanti Mantra and other devotional prayers.
Sharing details in a post on X, PM Modi said, "It was a gladdening and moving experience for me to witness a performance of the South African Girmitiya song 'Ganga Maiya' in Johannesburg. Another special part of this performance was the rendition in Tamil! This song carries with it hope and the unbroken spirit of those who came here many years ago. They faced numerous hardships on the way, but that did not deter them. They kept India alive in their hearts through songs and prayers. Thus, it is commendable to see this cultural connection kept alive."
He added, "The cultural connection between India and South Africa is truly heartwarming and timeless. In Johannesburg, my young friends sang the Ganapati Prarthana, Shanti Mantra and other divine prayers with great devotion. Such moments reaffirm the enduring bonds between our people."
The Prime Minister further wrote, "Deeply touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in Johannesburg. This affection reflects the enduring bond between India and South Africa. These ties, rooted in history and strengthened by shared values, continue to grow even stronger!"
PM Modi will attend the G20 Summit from November 21 to 23 -- the first G20 Summit to be held on the African continent. He will take part in discussions on key issues concerning India and the Global South. This marks his fourth official visit to South Africa, following trips in 2016, 2018, and 2023 for the BRICS Summits.