What Does President Droupadi Murmu's State-Visit to Angola Mean?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening bilateral ties between India and Angola.
- Celebrating 40 years of diplomatic relations.
- Engagement in various sectors including energy and trade.
- Participation in Angola's independence anniversary celebrations.
- Opportunity to address the Angolan parliament and connect with the Indian community.
Luanda, Nov 9 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Luanda on Sunday for a State-visit following an invitation from Angola's President Joao Lourenco. She was welcomed at the airport by Angola's Minister of External Relations, Tete Antonio, and the Vice Governor of Luanda province, Jorge Miguens.
The spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized that this visit will enhance the bilateral relations between India and Angola.
“President Droupadi Murmu has landed in Luanda, Angola's capital. This year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Angola, making her visit crucial for strengthening bilateral cooperation,” Jaiswal shared on X.
During her stay, President Murmu is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with her Angolan counterpart, Lourenco, and participate in the 50th independence anniversary celebrations of Angola on November 11.
In a dedicated briefing regarding President Murmu's visit, Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary for Economic Relations at the MEA, noted that this marks the first visit by an Indian head of state to Angola and Botswana, highlighting the growing engagement between India and Africa in various sectors.
Dalela recalled that President Lourenco visited India in May, where he invited her to join the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of Angola's independence. He remarked on India's longstanding support for Angola's freedom struggle.
“Additionally, we are commemorating the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. Currently, the President of Angola chairs the African Union, adding to the significance of Honourable Rashtrapati Ji's visit. During her time here, she will hold talks with the Angolan President and attend the independence celebrations on November 11,” Dalela added.
Further detailing President Murmu's engagements, he mentioned that she is set to address the Angolan parliament and engage with the Indian diaspora in Angola.
“India and Angola share a close friendship and cooperation, which have been advancing across various sectors. Our vibrant energy partnership with Angola has gained momentum following the Angolan President's visit to India this year. Honourable Rashtrapati Ji's state visit will allow us to review our bilateral ties and explore opportunities for enhancing cooperation in agriculture, energy, trade, investments, technology, infrastructure development, defense, and people-to-people connections,” he stated.
After her engagements in Angola, President Murmu will proceed to Botswana from November 11-13 at the invitation of President Duma Gideon Boko, where she will discuss key issues, address the National Assembly, and interact with the Indian community.