India Sends 1000 Tonnes of Humanitarian Aid to Lesotho, Supporting the Global South
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New Delhi, Dec 20 (NationPress) On Friday, India sent a shipment of 1000 metric tonnes of rice to Lesotho as part of its humanitarian aid, aimed at enhancing food security and meeting the nutritional needs of the residents of this landlocked African nation.
The shipment departed from Nhava Sheva Port, as reported by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
India has previously delivered similar consignments as a sign of goodwill and friendship, aimed at alleviating the severe consequences of food shortages due to famine and natural disasters in sub-Saharan Africa.
Under the framework of South-South cooperation, India and Lesotho are collaborating on various fronts including development partnerships, trade and economic relations, energy, agriculture, health, arts and culture, and consular matters.
India, which has consistently supported Africa during challenging times, had also provided 150 tonnes of medical aid to 32 African nations during the Covid-19 pandemic under its commendable 'Vaccine Maitri' initiative.
The administration led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also offered relief supplies to African nations affected by natural disasters, including Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, and Mozambique.
Earlier this year, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar stated that the strong ties between India and Africa, deeply rooted in history, have been reshaped by PM Modi's ten guiding principles.
These principles focus on India's commitment to unlock Africa's potential by enhancing local capacity and creating opportunities; maintaining open Indian markets; sharing experiences from the digital revolution to aid Africa's development; enhancing public service delivery; expanding education and digital literacy in Africa; improving agricultural practices; tackling climate change; and collaborating with African nations to ensure open and free oceans for all.
"During our G20 Presidency, India prioritized placing the Global South at the heart of global discussions. We emphasized Africa's aspirations rather than merely its needs. The inclusion of the African Union as a permanent G20 member during our 2023 Presidency is a significant achievement for us. We fully support the African Union's 'Ezulwini Consensus' and the 'Sirte Declaration. We have reiterated our dedication to the global south during the Voice of Global South Summits," EAM Jaishankar stated on June 25 during Africa Day celebrations.
Emphasizing the need for close collaboration, Jaishankar assured that Africa will always remain a top priority for India, embodying the spirit of being a 'Vishwa Bandhu'.
"In conclusion, I would like to recall PM Modi's words from 2018 - 'India’s priority is not merely Africa; it is the Africans – every man, woman, and child. Our partnership with Africa transcends strategic interests and economic gains. It is founded on the emotional connections and solidarity we share,''' EAM Jaishankar remarked during his speech.
