New Delhi, Nov 10 (NationPress) The initiative to export Vande Bharat trains to Angola signifies a calculated maneuver in India’s expanding outreach to the Global South, stated Ranjeet Mehta, CEO and Secretary General of PHDCCI, on Monday.

In a conversation with IANS regarding President Droupadi Murmu’s proposal to deliver India’s locally manufactured high-speed trains to the African nation, Mehta underscored the robust energy connections between India and Angola. He pointed out that, in light of the prevailing global geopolitical landscape, Angola could evolve into a vital ally for oil, gas, and deep-sea exploration.

“This marks the inaugural visit by an Indian Head of State to Angola, aligning with the nation’s 50th independence anniversary and 40 years of diplomatic ties with India. The Vande Bharat initiative is a noteworthy achievement for the ‘Make in India’ campaign,” Mehta expressed.

He further stated that the world is witnessing a “new India” — one that is technologically self-sufficient, innovative, and poised to take a leading role on the international stage. “Every strategic decision India makes contributes to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047,” he added.

Mehta also highlighted the potential of the India-Angola collaboration, considering India’s status as the fastest-growing economy globally and Angola’s abundant reserves of minerals and energy resources.

“Angola requires investments across diverse sectors, and with both nations possessing youthful populations, there is substantial potential for cooperation in fields like skill development, agriculture, and capacity building,” he noted.

During her visit to Angola, President Murmu conferred with her Angolan counterpart, Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco, and both agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation, particularly in energy, infrastructure, defense, health, agriculture, and digital technologies.

President Murmu reiterated India’s dedication to supporting Angola’s development both bilaterally and within the broader framework of the India-Africa Forum Summit during their meeting.

Additionally, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) concerning collaboration in fisheries, aquaculture, and marine resources, as well as consular matters, were signed and exchanged between Presidents Murmu and Lourenco.