Johannesburg, South Africa – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa shared a memorable light-hearted moment with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their bilateral talks on Sunday, creating a warm atmosphere at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg. The Ramaphosa Modi exchange captured the friendly rapport between the two leaders as the South African President jokingly remarked that New Delhi should have warned him that hosting the G20 summit “is such a difficult task.” This candid moment reflected the strong personal chemistry and diplomatic camaraderie that characterizes India-South Africa relations.
The bilateral meeting between Ramaphosa Modi took place on the sidelines of what was a historic occasion—South Africa’s hosting of the first G20 Summit ever held on African soil. President Ramaphosa formally closed the summit on Sunday, announcing that the presidency would now transition to the United States. He ceremonially banged the Gavel of the G20, marking the conclusion of South Africa’s successful tenure as the host nation.
Gratitude and Humor Mark Delegation-Level Talks
During the India-South Africa delegation-level talks, President Ramaphosa expressed sincere gratitude to India for its support in hosting the G20 leaders’ summit. It was during these discussions that the memorable Ramaphosa Modi exchange occurred, creating a moment of levity amid serious diplomatic deliberations.
“Thank you for the support that India has given to South Africa in hosting G20…You should have told us that it is such a difficult task, maybe we would have run away,” Ramaphosa said with a giggle, drawing hearty laughter from Prime Minister Modi and all those present in the room. The spontaneous humor highlighted the ease and comfort that defines the Ramaphosa Modi relationship.
The South African leader went on to acknowledge that his country had learned valuable lessons from India’s experience. “We have learned a lot from your hosting of the G20 … and yours was spectacular… building … ours is really small,” Ramaphosa added, paying tribute to India’s successful presidency in 2023.
PM Modi’s Gracious Response
In characteristic diplomatic style, the Ramaphosa Modi interaction continued with Prime Minister Modi offering a gracious response to his counterpart’s modest assessment. “Small is always beautiful,” PM Modi replied, demonstrating the mutual respect and appreciation that underpins the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
This exchange between Ramaphosa Modi served as a reminder that even at the highest levels of international diplomacy, personal connections and genuine warmth can flourish, making complex negotiations and partnerships more effective and sustainable.
India’s Spectacular G20 Hosting in 2023
The reference during the Ramaphosa Modi talks to India’s hosting capabilities was well-deserved. In September 2023, India hosted the 18th G20 summit at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, a state-of-the-art venue that was unveiled just ahead of the global event. The summit was widely praised for its impeccable organization, cultural showcasing, and diplomatic achievements.
One of the most significant accomplishments during India’s presidency in 2023 was the inclusion of the African Union as a member of the G20. This historic decision, championed by India, expanded the forum’s representation and gave greater voice to the African continent in global economic governance—a development that President Ramaphosa undoubtedly appreciated.
Comprehensive Bilateral Cooperation Discussed
Beyond the lighter moments, the Ramaphosa Modi meeting addressed substantial bilateral issues. The two leaders discussed cooperation in various critical areas, including trade, investment, mining, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, and food security. These discussions reflected the multifaceted nature of India-South Africa relations and the potential for expanded partnership across diverse sectors.
After the bilateral meeting, Prime Minister Modi posted on X: “Had an excellent meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa during the G20 Summit in Johannesburg.” He elaborated that the Ramaphosa Modi discussions reviewed the full range of the India-South Africa partnership, “especially in boosting linkages of commerce, culture, investment and diversifying cooperation in technology, skilling, AI, critical minerals and more.”
Wildlife Conservation and BRICS Cooperation
The Ramaphosa Modi meeting also touched upon wildlife conservation initiatives. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Ramaphosa for South Africa’s cheetah relocation program to India and extended an invitation for South Africa to join the International Big Cat Alliance led by New Delhi. This environmental cooperation dimension adds another layer to the comprehensive bilateral relationship.
Significantly, President Ramaphosa assured South Africa’s complete support to India for its upcoming chairship of BRICS in 2026. This commitment from the Ramaphosa Modi talks signals continued cooperation within the broader framework of emerging economies and demonstrates South Africa’s confidence in India’s leadership capabilities.
Looking Forward: Strengthening Global South Partnership
The warm Ramaphosa Modi exchange at the G20 Summit represents more than just a pleasant diplomatic moment. It symbolizes the deep and growing partnership between India and South Africa, two leading voices of the Global South. As both nations continue to play increasingly important roles in shaping global economic governance and addressing shared challenges, the personal rapport between leaders like Ramaphosa Modi becomes an invaluable asset in fostering cooperation and understanding.
Prime Minister Modi concluded his remarks by congratulating President Ramaphosa for South Africa’s successful G20 Presidency, acknowledging the nation’s achievement in hosting Africa’s first-ever G20 Summit and setting the stage for continued collaboration between these two important democracies.
