President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday began a six-day State visit to Angola and Botswana, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian head of state to both nations.
The visit, scheduled from November 8 to 13, aims to deepen India’s partnership with Africa.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the departure on X, stating, “Reiterating India’s commitment to Africa and the Global South, President Droupadi Murmu has departed on a two-country State visit to Angola and Botswana.”
During the visit, President Murmu will hold bilateral talks with her counterparts and address both parliaments. She will also attend key national events and meet the Indian diaspora in Luanda and Gaborone.
Focus on Africa Ties
MEA Secretary (Economic Relations) Sudhakar Dalela said the visit represents a milestone in India’s diplomatic outreach to Africa. He noted that it is the first time an Indian President is visiting Angola and Botswana.
Dalela emphasised that India’s engagement with Africa is growing across sectors, political, trade, economic, and cultural.
He said India’s Africa policy follows the 10 guiding principles outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018, with the India-Africa Forum Summit providing the framework for cooperation.
Sudhakar Dalela added that India has expanded its diplomatic footprint in recent years, opening 17 new missions across Africa.
He also highlighted that during India’s G20 Presidency, the African Union was made a permanent member of the grouping, underscoring India’s support for the continent.
President Murmu will visit Angola from November 8 to 11 at the invitation of President João Lourenço.
The two leaders will discuss cooperation in agriculture, energy, trade, investments, technology, defence, and infrastructure.
The visit coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Angola.
From November 11 to 13, President Murmu will visit Botswana at the invitation of President Duma Gideon Boko.
The visit aims to reinforce India’s strong and friendly ties with Botswana and advance collaboration across diverse sectors.
The historic trip underscores India’s long-term commitment to Africa’s development and partnership based on mutual respect and shared growth.
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