Luanda: The narrowing of parliamentary cooperation between Angola and the Republic of India was the main topic addressed at the audience that the president of the National Assembly, Carolina Cerqueira, granted the Indian ambassador, Viduh Nair. Speaking to the press at the end of the meeting, the Indian diplomat said that the objective was to address the mechanisms for the possibility of cooperation between the two countries, noting that India has one of the greatest democracies and Angola is currently the leader of the African Union (UA).
According to Angola Press News Agency, the Indian ambassador emphasized that, during the 147th General Assembly of the Inter-parliamentary Union (UIP) in 2024, there was interaction through a group of parliamentarians from his country. This interaction now aims to materialize with the creation of a broader structure for cooperation. Contacts between the two institutions have been made to further narrow cooperation, with a plan being prepared for this purpose.
In the field of parliamentary training, both nations will work to exchange experience between the Indian Parliament Formative Institution and the National Assembly Academy. During President Joo Louren§o's visit to India in May, discussions included the engagement of both parliaments for the narrowing of relationships.
Regarding bilateral relations, the Indian ambassador noted their importance to India, with India being the largest buyer of Angola's oil, contributing to global energy safety. In terms of business, India ranks among the top three in business partnerships, with a significant community investing in Angola and creating jobs for nationals.
Cooperation between Angola and India has been considered cordial and stable since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1985. India is a significant commercial partner of Angola, especially in the purchase of Angolan oil. Bilateral trade has grown, reaching $3.2 billion by 2021, with an increase in Indian exports to Angola. Both nations have shown interest in further strengthening this relationship through increased visits and collaboration in various sectors.
