External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said that the India-Africa partnership assumes significance as the world navigates through complex geopolitical challenges. He said that today, Africa occupies a central place in India’s foreign policy, and India has expanded its diplomatic footprint in Africa in recent years.

 

The External Affairs Minister said this while unveiling the logo, theme and website of the India Africa Forum Summit, which will be held from 28th to 31st May. Addressing the curtain raiser event of the Summit in New Delhi, Dr S. Jaishankar said that 17 new diplomatic missions have been opened across the continent, taking the number of missions there to 46.

 

He added that this demonstrates India’s long-term commitment to engaging with every region of the continent. The External Affairs Minister also underlined that India has consistently supported Africa’s rightful place in global governance. He said the voices of the Global South must shape global governance in the times to come. 

 

Dr Jaishankar said India’s engagement with Africa is guided by a clear vision rooted in the principle of equality, of mutual respect, and of shared progress. He added that the Viksit Bharat 2047 and Africa’s Agenda 2063 are both complementary roadmaps which are geared towards prosperity and progress through sustainable growth and inclusive development. 

 

External Affairs Minister said India-Africa relationship is rooted in civilisational linkages, nurtured over centuries through trade, cultural exchanges, and human interactions. He further stated that the bond between India and Africa was further strengthened as India stood in solidarity with African nations in their struggle against colonialism.

 

The Minister said that African nations are key partners in India-led global initiatives. Dr Jaishankar highlighted that India has emerged as one of Africa’s largest trading partners and bilateral investors.