Will Angolan President Lourenco Strengthen Ties with India?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- President Lourenco aims to strengthen ties with India.
- First visit by an Angolan President in 38 years.
- Expected agreements to enhance cooperation.
- Focus on sectors like energy and agriculture.
- Trade reached $4.192 billion in 2023-24.
New Delhi, May 1 (NationPress) The President of Angola, Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco, is set to embark on a significant four-day journey to India starting Thursday, aimed at enhancing the diplomatic ties between the two nations.
This marks his inaugural state visit to India.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted, "This is the first time in 38 years that an Angolan President is visiting India. The visit aligns with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Angola this year."
Throughout his visit, President Lourenco is anticipated to engage in discussions with both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu. Numerous agreements are expected to be signed to bolster cooperation across a variety of sectors.
Accompanying him will be a high-ranking delegation, which includes ministers, top officials, and business executives.
A ceremonial reception will be held for him at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 3.
Following this, he will confer with President Murmu for bilateral discussions.
The MEA's statement noted, "President Lourenco will engage in delegation-level discussions with Prime Minister Modi, who will also host a luncheon in his honor."
Many MoUs and agreements are anticipated to be formalized during this visit, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.
On May 4, 2025, President Lourenco will participate in a business event in New Delhi designed to foster investment and commercial ties between the two nations.
Business leaders and key stakeholders from both India and Angola are expected to explore potential partnerships in sectors such as oil and gas, infrastructure, agriculture, and mining.
India and Angola maintain a cordial and growing relationship, significantly supported by robust energy cooperation.
In the financial year 2023–24, trade between the two countries reached $4.192 billion, as reported by the MEA.
Both countries also engage closely on international platforms and consistently support one another at the United Nations.
President Lourenco’s visit represents a pivotal advancement in bilateral relations, with both nations eager to expand and deepen their strategic collaboration in the upcoming years.
This visit is expected to pave the way for a more vibrant partnership, mirroring the mutual goals and aspirations of India and Angola.