Ahead of the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg on November 22-23, 2025, PM Narendra Modi and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa are poised to reinforce bilateral ties, focusing on trade, technology, and global cooperation, marking a milestone in India-South Africa relations and the Global South agenda.
As the world’s attention turns to Johannesburg, South Africa, for the 2025 G20 Leaders' Summit on November 22-23, a significant highlight on the diplomatic calendar is the scheduled high-level bilateral interaction between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This meeting signifies the ongoing commitment from both leaders to deepen and broaden the India-South Africa partnership, building on years of shared history, cooperation, and mutual aspirations.
Strategic Meeting at G20 Summit
The two leaders will engage in discussions to fortify economic, technological, and strategic cooperation. The summit offers an ideal platform to align on global issues impacting the Global South, including sustainable development, debt relief, and equitable economic growth, reflecting their shared vision of a multipolar world order.
Economic and Trade Collaboration
Bilateral trade between the countries, currently approximating $20 billion, is poised for expansion. Focus areas include agro-processing, mining, finance, defence, and technology innovations. An emphasis on investment-led trade is expected to drive future growth, bolstered by recent cooperation agreements and business conclaves held earlier in 2025.
Historical and Cultural Bonds
The relationship between India and South Africa is deeply rooted in a shared heritage, notably Mahatma Gandhi’s formative years in South Africa, inspiring global movements for justice. Regular high-level visits and dialogues, including President Ramaphosa’s role as chief guest at India’s Republic Day in 2019, underscore the trust and friendship between the nations.
Global South and Multilateral Cooperation
Both leaders are expected to reinforce their commitment to empower developing economies in Africa and Asia, championing reforms in global governance institutions such as the United Nations Security Council, to better reflect contemporary geopolitical realities.
Looking Forward
PM Modi’s visit to South Africa for the G20 summit also includes participation in the IPSA summit, further solidifying the diplomatic, cultural, and economic linkages. The upcoming talks are anticipated to create new pathways for deeper connectivity and cooperation between India and South Africa in the years ahead.
This bilateral engagement at the G20 summit stands as a testament to India and South Africa’s enduring partnership, one that blends diplomatic resolve with a shared vision for equitable global progress.
Sources: Morung Express, IANS Live, India Tribune, Parliament of South Africa, DD News, MEA India