Why is the Angolan President Visiting New Delhi After 38 Years?
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Synopsis
Angola's President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco has arrived in New Delhi for a historic state visit, the first by an Angolan leader in 38 years. This visit is a significant step towards enhancing diplomatic and economic ties between Angola and India, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
Key Takeaways
- First official visit by an Angolan President to India in 38 years.
- Strengthening diplomatic ties coinciding with the 40th anniversary of relations.
- Meetings planned with Prime Minister Modi and President Murmu.
- Several MoUs expected to be signed during the visit.
- Focus on enhancing trade and investment between the two nations.
New Delhi, May 2 (NationPress) President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco of Angola has touched down in New Delhi, marking the first official state visit by an Angolan leader to India in 38 years. This four-day visit is designed to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and strategic relationships between the two nations.
Upon his arrival, President Lourenco received a warm welcome at the airport from Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation that consists of various ministers, senior officials, and representatives from leading business sectors.
Randhir Jaiswal, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), shared on X, 'A warm welcome to President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco of Angola as he arrives in New Delhi for his state visit. Accompanied by a high-level delegation, the President was warmly received by MoS @KVSinghMPGonda at the airport.'
Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh echoed this sentiment on his social media, saying, 'I am pleased to welcome President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco of Angola on his state visit to India.'
This important visit coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Angola. According to the MEA, this is the first visit by an Angolan President to India since 1986.
During his stay, President Lourenco is set to hold individual meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu. On May 3, he will receive a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by discussions with President Murmu. He will also partake in delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Modi, who is expected to host a luncheon in his honor.
The MEA indicated that several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements are anticipated to be signed during this visit, further enhancing bilateral relations.
On May 4, President Lourenco will engage in a business event in New Delhi, aimed at promoting trade, investment, and commercial connections between the two countries. This event will gather key stakeholders from various sectors, including oil and gas, infrastructure, agriculture, and mining.
India and Angola share robust and growing ties, especially in the energy sector, with bilateral trade hitting $4.192 billion in the financial year 2023–24. Both countries also cooperate closely on international platforms, often supporting each other in forums such as the United Nations.
In October 2015, Angola's Vice President, Manuel Vicente, visited India for the 3rd India-Africa Summit, where he met with Prime Minister Modi. President Lourenco also met PM Modi during his visit to Johannesburg for the BRICS Summit on July 26, 2018.
This visit by President Lourenco is expected to be a pivotal moment in bilateral engagement, paving the way for a more dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership. Both nations aim to deepen collaboration and align their respective interests for long-term strategic development.
Point of View
We are committed to presenting a balanced perspective on significant international visits. The arrival of President Lourenco is a promising development for India-Angola relations, reflecting the importance of fostering diplomatic and economic cooperation. We support efforts that align with national interests and enhance our global standing.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of President Lourenco's visit to India?
The primary aim of President Lourenco's visit is to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties between Angola and India, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
Who welcomed President Lourenco upon his arrival?
President Lourenco was warmly received at the airport by Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh.
What significant meetings is President Lourenco scheduled for?
President Lourenco is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu during his stay in India.
What agreements are expected to be signed during the visit?
Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements aimed at boosting bilateral relations are expected to be signed during the visit.
How much did bilateral trade reach between India and Angola?
Bilateral trade between India and Angola reached $4.192 billion in the financial year 2023–24.
