Prime Minister Modi Engages Indian Diaspora and Tech Entrepreneurs During G20 Summit in South Africa

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday engaged with Indian origin tech entrepreneurs and community members during his visit to South Africa for the G20 Leaders' Summit.

While in Johannesburg, the Prime Minister had what he described as a "fruitful interaction" with Indian origin tech entrepreneurs working across various sectors including FinTech, social media platforms, agriculture, education, healthcare, and medical devices.

During these discussions, Modi encouraged the entrepreneurs to strengthen their ties with India and collaborate more closely with Indian citizens.

The Prime Minister also met with members of the Indian community based in South Africa who are actively involved with various community organizations. They shared their experiences on different issues and expressed appreciation for India's progress across multiple fields.

Modi urged them to maintain their momentum in enhancing people-to-people connections and to promote Indian cultural practices such as Yoga and Ayurveda among South Africans.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted on social platform X that the Prime Minister emphasized the diaspora's role as "a living bridge" between India and South Africa. Modi acknowledged the contributions of the 1.7 million strong Indian diaspora in South Africa toward strengthening the historical bonds between the two nations.

The Prime Minister also praised their efforts in helping younger generations connect with the legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela.

During his visit, Modi received a 'Kalash' from the Chinmaya Mission, containing millets (Shree Anna) from both India and South Africa. He mentioned that this would be placed in the Annapoorna Devi Temple in Durban.

The Prime Minister also met with winners of the Bharat Ko Janiye (Know India) Quiz in South Africa, noting that this competition encourages diaspora members to learn more about India's history and culture.

In addition to these meetings, Modi held talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Johannesburg, where they reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation across areas including defense and security, critical minerals, trade and investment, and people-to-people connections.

Modi also met with Naspers chairman and CEO to discuss expanding investments in India's digital ecosystem.

Upon his arrival at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Gauteng earlier that day, the Prime Minister was given a warm and ceremonial welcome.

This G20 Summit marks the first such gathering held on African soil. Notably, the African Union became a G20 member during India's presidency in 2023.