New Delhi, Nov 6 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu is set to embark on a significant State visit to Angola and Botswana from November 8-13. During this period, she will engage in discussions with her counterparts, deliver speeches at the parliaments of both nations, and connect with the Indian diaspora in Luanda and Gaborone, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday.

At a special briefing regarding President Murmu's upcoming visit, Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary of Economic Relations at MEA, highlighted that this marks the first-ever visit by an Indian head of state to both Angola and Botswana. He emphasized the increasing collaboration between India and Africa across various sectors.

"The Honourable President will undertake this state visit from November 8 to 13. This is the inaugural state visit by any Indian head of state to these nations. As many know, India's involvement with Africa has been expanding significantly across political, trade, economic, and developmental dimensions, as well as in people-to-people relationships. Numerous high-level political interactions have fostered deeper cooperation with the African continent," he stated.

Dalela noted that India's engagement with Africa is driven by ten principles outlined by the Honourable Prime Minister in 2018 during his address in the Parliament of Uganda. This growing partnership aligns with the development agenda of the African continent, as exemplified by the India-Africa Forum Summit, which serves as a comprehensive framework for dialogue and collaboration.

He continued, "India's diplomatic presence in Africa has witnessed substantial growth with the establishment of 17 new missions. Furthermore, during India's G20 Presidency in 2023, the African Union was welcomed as a permanent member of the G20. Our increasing engagement with Africa reflects the government's priority of strengthening ties with countries in the Global South. Our trade with Africa is approaching USD 100 billion, and we maintain a robust development partnership with the region. The over three-million-strong Indian community across Africa acts as a cultural and economic bridge. Therefore, President Murmu's visit should be viewed within this broader context of India's commitment to enhancing relations with Africa," he added.

President Murmu's itinerary includes a visit to Angola from November 8-11 at the invitation of her Angolan counterpart, Joao Lourenco. Dalela mentioned that Lourenco had visited India in May and extended an invitation for her to partake in the 50th anniversary celebrations of Angola's independence, a period during which India provided substantial support for Angola's freedom struggle.

"Additionally, this year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Angola. The President of Angola currently chairs the African Union, making this visit particularly significant. During her stay, the Honourable President will engage in bilateral discussions with Lourenco and participate in the independence celebrations on November 11."

Elaborating on her engagements in Angola, Dalela stated that President Murmu is set to address the Angolan parliament and engage with members of the Indian community residing there.

"India and Angola share a close friendship and cooperation that continues to flourish across various sectors. Our vibrant energy partnership has gained momentum following the Angolan President's visit to India. This state visit provides an opportunity to review our bilateral relations and enhance cooperation in agriculture, energy, trade, investments, technology, infrastructure, defense, and cultural exchanges," he explained.

Following her stay in Angola, President Murmu will proceed to Botswana from November 11-13 at the invitation of President Duma Gideon Boko. Here, she will hold talks with Boko, address the National Assembly of Botswana, and connect with the Indian community.

"During the second leg of her visit, Honourable Rashtrapati Ji will be in Botswana from November 11 to 13 to strengthen the longstanding ties between India and Botswana. The two leaders will discuss new opportunities for cooperation in various fields, including trade, investments, technology, energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, defense, and cultural connections," he added.

In Botswana, President Murmu is also scheduled to address the National Assembly and visit culturally and historically significant sites, where she is expected to meet several dignitaries.

Dalela remarked that next year, India and Botswana will commemorate the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.

The MEA Secretary highlighted that Botswana's Vision 2036 aims to diversify its economy and achieve high-income status. He noted that this visit will allow India to understand Botswana's priorities and explore how Indian businesses can collaborate with their Botswana counterparts in key sectors. He also mentioned India's engagement with Botswana for the translocation of cheetahs to India as part of Project Cheetah, anticipating progress in this initiative.

"Both Angola and Botswana are home to vibrant Indian communities. Honourable Rashtrapati Ji's interactions with them in Luanda and Gaborone are vital. We anticipate significant outcomes from this visit, including potential MoUs or announcements. The visit is a reflection of India's steadfast commitment to strengthening its multifaceted partnerships with Africa," he concluded.