India has announced a defence credit line of 200 million dollars (in Indian Rupees) to support the modernisation of Angola’s armed forces. The announcement came following delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the President of Angola, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, in New Delhi.
After the meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed that terrorism remains a serious threat to humanity and expressed gratitude for Angola’s condolences following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. In a joint press statement, PM Modi emphasised India’s commitment to taking firm and decisive action against terrorists and their supporters and thanked Angola for its solidarity in combating cross-border terrorism.
Prime Minister Modi also extended his best wishes to Angola for its presidency of the African Union. He highlighted that it was a matter of pride for India that during its G20 presidency, the African Union was granted permanent membership in the G20.
Addressing the media in New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (Economic Relations) Dammu Ravi reiterated that the Prime Minister had offered a Defence Line of Credit worth 200 million dollars in Indian Rupees. He confirmed that Angola will be sourcing defence equipment from India. Discussions are already underway with Indian public and private sector companies regarding various items to be procured.
Mr Ravi added that India and Angola also exchanged several agreements in diverse fields, including agriculture, traditional medicine, and culture.
He further noted that the president of Angola strongly condemned the recent terror attack on Indian soil and expressed solidarity with the people of India. Mr Ravi said the delegation-level talks covered a wide range of issues, including an assessment of the existing bilateral relationship and exploration of new and futuristic areas of cooperation.
Tomorrow, President Lourenço is scheduled to participate in a business event in New Delhi aimed at promoting investment and commercial linkages between the two countries.
