PM Modi meets Indian origin tech entrepreneurs, community members in Johannesburg

By Admin

22 Nov, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Johannesburg for the G20 Leaders’ Summit on November 21, 2025, engaged in a series of meaningful interactions with Indian-origin tech entrepreneurs and members of the vibrant Indian diaspora in South Africa. His meetings focused on strengthening people-to-people ties, promoting cultural exchange, and enhancing digital and economic cooperation between the two nations.

A Fruitful Dialogue with Tech Innovators

PM Modi shared that he had a “fruitful interaction” with Indian-origin tech entrepreneurs who are contributing to multiple sectors, including FinTech, social media platforms, agriculture, education, healthcare, and medical devices. He encouraged them to deepen their engagement with India and collaborate closely with its growing innovation ecosystem. Highlighting India’s rapid progress in digital transformation, he urged entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities and support India’s advancement across critical domains.

Connecting with the Indian Community in South Africa

The Prime Minister also met members of the Indian community who are actively involved with various South African community organisations. He appreciated their efforts to strengthen ties between the two countries and acknowledged their contributions as more than 1.7 million members of the Indian diaspora who serve as “a living bridge” between India and South Africa.

Community members shared their experiences across a range of issues and praised India’s achievements in development and global leadership. PM Modi encouraged them to continue enhancing people-to-people linkages and to promote Indian culture including Yoga and Ayurveda among South Africans.

Honouring Cultural Ties and Heritage

During the interaction, the Chinmaya Mission presented PM Modi with a special ‘Kalash’ containing Shree Anna (millets) from both India and South Africa. The Kalash will be placed in the Annapoorna Devi Temple in Durban, symbolising shared agricultural heritage and deep-rooted cultural connections.

PM Modi also met the winners of the Bharat Ko Janiye (Know India) Quiz in South Africa. He highlighted that the quiz plays an important role in encouraging youth from the diaspora to learn more about India’s history, culture, and global influence.

Discussion with Naspers Leadership on Digital Investment

On the sidelines of the Summit, PM Modi held an important meeting with Koos Bekker, Chairman of Naspers, and CEO Fabricio Bloisi. The discussions centred on expanding investments in India’s digital ecosystem, AI, startup culture, space sector, and technology-driven consumer markets. The Ministry of External Affairs noted that Naspers’ success in India reflects the ease of doing business and the strength of India’s startup landscape. PM Modi lauded the company for working closely with India’s talented youth and for contributing to deepening investment linkages.

Engagement with Australian PM Anthony Albanese

PM Modi also met his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, upon arriving in South Africa. The leaders reviewed ongoing cooperation across defence and security, critical minerals, trade and investment, and people-to-people relationships. This bilateral engagement further reinforced India’s growing partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.

A Historic G20 Summit in Africa

PM Modi arrived at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Gauteng to a ceremonial welcome as he joined world leaders for the first G20 Summit hosted on African soil. The event marks a defining moment, especially since the African Union was inducted as a permanent member of the G20 during India’s presidency in 2023.

Through his interactions with tech leaders, community members, and global counterparts, PM Modi strengthened India’s collaborative efforts in innovation, culture, diplomacy, and global development further reinforcing India’s role on the world stage.