India and Angola Strengthen Ties, Champion Global South Collaboration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, reaffirming India’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation within the Global South. The meeting marked the 40th anniversary of India-Angola diplomatic ties and coincided with Angola’s assumption of the African Union chairmanship.  

During the discussions, PM Modi congratulated Angola on its leadership role in the African Union and emphasized India’s long-standing support for Angola’s development. He highlighted India’s contributions to Africa, including $12 billion in credit lines, $700 million in grants, and vocational training centers established across eight African nations.  

Trade between India and Angola has reached nearly $100 million, with growing collaboration in defense, maritime security, and digital public infrastructure. PM Modi also announced a $200-million line of credit for Angola’s defense modernization, reinforcing India’s commitment to strengthening security partnerships.  

The leaders discussed expanding cooperation in healthcare, diamond processing, fertilizers, and critical minerals. PM Modi expressed India’s readiness to assist Angola in training its armed forces and sharing expertise in space technology and digital infrastructure.  

President Lourenco praised India’s achievements and expressed Angola’s desire for concrete, impactful collaborations in sectors such as agriculture, finance, health, defense, higher education, IT, energy, and trade. He acknowledged India’s role in securing permanent membership for the African Union in the G20 and emphasized the importance of joint efforts in addressing global challenges.  

The meeting underscored India and Angola’s shared vision for a stronger Global South, with both nations committed to fostering economic growth, technological advancement, and strategic cooperation.  

Sources: The Hans India, Indian Express, The Print, MSN News.