India and Angola today exchanged several agreements in various fields including agriculture, traditional medicine, and culture. The agreements were exchanged following delegation level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of Angola Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco in New Delhi.
In his joint press statement, Prime Minister Modi stated that India is committed to take firm and decisive action against terrorists and those who support them. He thanked Angola for their support in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism. He said India and Angola are in agreement that terrorism is the greatest threat to humanity.
Prime Minister announced that a Defence Credit Line of 200 million dollars has been approved for the modernization of Angola’s forces. He added that discussions were also held on the repair and overhaul of defence platforms and supply. He said India will be happy to cooperate in the training of Angola’s armed forces.
Mr Modi said India and Angola are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year but ties between India and Angola are older. He extended his best wishes to Angola for its presidency of the African Union. He termed it a matter of pride for India that during India’s G20 presidency, the African Union was granted permanent membership in the G20.
Prime Minister emphasised that India and African Union are partners in progress, and pillars of the Global South.
President of Angola arrived in New Delhi yesterday on three-day State Visit to India. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including several Ministers, senior officials, business houses and media.
President Lourenço was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan in the National Capital this morning. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi welcomed the President of Angola.
Speaking to the media, President Lourenço highlighted that this State visit marks the first in 38 years, making it a significant moment for Angola. He emphasized the importance of the visit in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between India and Angola. President Lourenço expressed his delegation’s deep appreciation for the warm and hospitable reception they received from the people of India.
President Lourenço also paid tribute to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar called on President Lourenço this morning. In a social media post, Dr Jaishankar said he values his warm sentiments for India and guidance for taking forward the partnership. He expressed confidence that President Lourenco’s talks with Prime Minister Modi will chart new avenues of growth for India-Angola and India-Africa ties.
President Droupadi Murmu will hold discussions with her Angolan counterpart later today and will also host a banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary.
Tomorrow, President Laurenco will participate in a business event in New Delhi, aimed at promoting investment and commercial linkages between the two countries. India and Angola enjoy warm and friendly relations built over the years.
Bilateral relations of the two countries are underpinned by a vibrant energy partnership. Bilateral trade between the two countries has been growing and reached over four billion dollars during 2023-2024. The Development Partnership, Capacity-Building Cooperation and Defence relationship have also been expanding. Both countries support each other’s candidature at various multilateral fora including in the United Nations.
