Luanda: Angola plays a crucial role in India's energy security within the framework of a strategic partnership between the two nations, Indian Ambassador Vidhu Nair stated in Luanda. In a communication sent to ANGOP, marking the preparation of the fourth edition of the India-Africa Forum (IAFS-IV) scheduled for May 28-31 in New Delhi, the diplomat emphasized the diversification of economic relations between India and Angola into sectors such as diamonds, agriculture, energy transmission, infrastructure, health, pharmaceuticals, education, tourism, and hotels.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the ambassador recalled significant diplomatic exchanges, including Angolan President Joo Louren§o's state visit to India in May 2025, the first high-level exchange between the two countries in 38 years, and the visit by Indian President Droupadi Murmu to Angola in November 2025. These visits led to the signing of several memorandums of understanding in strategic areas, creating a foundation for deepening bilateral relations as both nations celebrated the 50th anniversary of Angola's national independence.
Vidhu Nair highlighted that the Indian government is organizing the fourth edition of the India-Africa Forum in New Delhi, continuing an initiative launched in 2008 that serves as the main mechanism for political and economic dialogue between India and African nations. The ambassador emphasized the historical ties between India and Africa, underscoring India's support for Africa's anti-colonial struggles, inspired by its own history of combating foreign domination, and the continent's central role in Indian foreign policy.
The envoy stated that the relationship between India and Africa is underpinned by principles of equality, mutual respect, and shared progress, as articulated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018. These principles guide India's interactions with African countries, aligning India's vision of 'Viksit Bharat-2047' with Africa's 'Agenda 2063', both aimed at sustainable development and economic prosperity.
Vidhu Nair noted the shared commitment of India and Africa to an inclusive global order, advocating for the Global South's significant role in world governance. He referenced India's efforts towards securing permanent membership for the African Union in the G20 during its 2023 presidency. The ambassador also highlighted African participation in global initiatives spearheaded by India, such as the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructures.
India is recognized as one of Africa's largest trading partners and investors, with cooperation spanning energy, infrastructure, health, education, and more. The ambassador noted that Africa benefits from India's external development support through credit lines, financial aid, scholarships, and skills programs. Cooperation is expanding into fintech, innovation, and critical minerals, focusing on co-creation and local ownership.
The upcoming forum, themed 'India-Africa Strategic Partnership for Innovation, Resilience and Inclusive Transformation', will serve as a platform for exchanging best practices and addressing common challenges. The India-Africa partnership aims to promote economic growth, strengthen institutions, empower populations, and foster resilient societies.
Vidhu Nair emphasized that this cooperation offers stability and solidarity amid global uncertainty, suggesting that India and Africa can collaboratively build a better world. He concluded by noting that Angola, as a key African Union member, stands to benefit considerably from this forward-looking strategic partnership rooted in mutual advantages.
