Prime Minister Narendra Modi drew attention at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg after a warm and light-hearted exchange with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The two leaders shared smiles, shook hands, and greeted each other with visible warmth, creating one of the most talked-about sideline moments of the summit. Their friendly interaction quickly became a highlight among global observers.
Warm Interactions With World Leaders
PM Modi continued to draw friendly responses as he met global leaders throughout the day. He exchanged hugs and greetings with several heads of state, including Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. His arrival at the summit venue marked the beginning of a packed schedule of bilateral meetings and G20 sessions.
#WATCH | Johannesburg, South Africa | Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares hug with several world leaders, including Brazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, at the G-20 Summit in Johannesburg
(Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/yWNNal90jy
— ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2025
Modi reached Johannesburg a day earlier, where he received an enthusiastic welcome from officials, performers, and members of the Indian community. His visit highlighted India’s strong ties with South Africa and its growing presence in global forums.
Grand Welcome for PM Modi Upon Arrival in Johannesburg
The atmosphere at Johannesburg airport on Friday was energetic and colourful. A cultural troupe welcomed PM Modi with traditional performances, offering bows as a gesture of respect. The vibrant display set a warm tone for India’s participation at the international gathering.
Soon after, the Indian diaspora staged a large cultural programme titled “Rhythms of a United India.” The event brought together folk dancers from 11 Indian states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan. The performances showcased India’s cultural variety and community spirit.
PM Modi praised their efforts in a social media post on X, saying, “India’s vibrant cultural diversity on display in South Africa! Members of the Indian community took the lead in showcasing folk dances from 11 states of India during a short cultural programme aptly titled ‘Rhythms of a United India.’ It is commendable how the Indian community has remained connected with its roots.”
Deepening India–South Africa Ties
Modi’s visit marks his fourth official trip to South Africa, following earlier visits for the BRICS Summits in 2018 and 2023, and a bilateral visit in 2016. His repeated engagements underline the strengthening relationship between the two nations in areas such as trade, defence, culture, and multilateral cooperation.
With PM Modi attending the G20 Summit from November 21 to 23, India aims to contribute to discussions on global development, climate action, economic reforms, and strategic cooperation among world powers.
