India and Africa: A Partnership for the Future, Says Minister Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke at the Africa Day celebrations in New Delhi, emphasizing the strong and evolving relationship between India and Africa. He noted that Africa is rapidly changing and is seen by India as a ‘natural partner’ with trust and mutual respect.

Deep-Rooted Relations

Jaishankar highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has redefined India’s engagement with Africa, focusing on building local capacity, sharing digital revolution experiences, and improving public services. He mentioned that India has extended e-Visa facilities to 33 African countries and opened 16 new diplomatic missions in Africa.

Educational and Development Initiatives

India has been at the forefront of providing training and education to Africans. Nearly 40,000 Africans have been trained under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program. Additionally, over 15,000 African youths have received scholarships for various courses since 2019. India has also established educational institutions in Africa, such as the Indian Institute of Technology in Zanzibar and the National Forensic Science University in Uganda.

Economic and Trade Cooperation

India is Africa’s fourth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade of about USD 100 billion and investments exceeding USD 75 billion. The African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) has opened up prospects for deeper economic integration. India has also completed 206 projects in 43 African countries and is working on 65 more projects under concessional loans.

Support During COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, India provided around 150 metric tonnes of medical aid to 32 African countries. The ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative also benefited many African nations. India has supplied medical equipment, ambulances, and cancer treatment machines to several African countries.