A Landmark First for Indian Diplomacy
Angola : President Droupadi Murmu landed in Luanda on Saturday to a ceremonial welcome that underscored the growing friendship between India and Angola. This is the first-ever visit by an Indian head of state to the resource-rich African nation – a milestone in New Delhi’s “Global South” diplomacy drive.
Accompanied by senior officials and business delegates, Murmu described the visit as “a bridge of friendship built on shared values, mutual respect, and common goals for development.”
Strengthening Trade and Energy Partnerships
During talks with Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, India proposed expanding cooperation in oil, renewable energy, mining, agriculture, and digital services. Angola, one of Africa’s top oil exporters, has shown interest in partnering with Indian companies for downstream energy projects and solar-power expansion.
Officials revealed that a bilateral trade and investment forum will soon be established to streamline private-sector collaboration, potentially doubling trade volumes – currently estimated at around US $4 billion.
Capacity Building and South–South Cooperation
Beyond economics, the visit emphasizes capacity building and human-resource exchange. India plans to open new scholarship slots under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, allowing Angolan students to study in Indian universities.
Both countries also discussed creating a digital-skills training center in Luanda, focusing on fintech, IT, and renewable-energy management.
A Strategic Move in Africa’s Geopolitical Landscape
Analysts say the trip signals India’s intention to strengthen its presence in sub-Saharan Africa, where China has maintained a dominant influence through large-scale infrastructure loans. By focusing on “partnership instead of dependency,” India aims to differentiate its approach as more inclusive and sustainable.
Diplomatic observers have called this “soft-power diplomacy in action,” with Murmu serving as a figurehead of India’s developmental, not transactional, engagement.
Cultural Diplomacy: A Touch of Shared Heritage
As part of the visit, Murmu will inaugurate an Indian Cultural Week at the National Museum of Angola, showcasing traditional crafts, yoga sessions, and classical dance performances. The President also met members of the Indian diaspora, praising their role as “ambassadors of friendship and service.”
India’s Broader Africa Vision
India’s outreach to Africa aligns with its Vision 2047 roadmap-focusing on equitable trade, sustainable energy, and digital connectivity across the Global South. Over the last decade, India has extended over $12 billion in development credit to African nations.
Murmu’s visit, therefore, goes beyond ceremonial symbolism; it represents India’s renewed commitment to a multipolar, cooperative world order.
