How Did President Murmu and Angola's Lourenco Strengthen Cooperation?
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Synopsis
President Droupadi Murmu's meeting with Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco marked a pivotal moment in strengthening bilateral ties. From energy to agriculture, both nations are set to collaborate more closely. Discover the implications of this partnership for India-Angola relations.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened bilateral cooperation in energy, defence, and agriculture.
- Signing of MoUs on fisheries and marine resources.
- India's commitment as a reliable partner in Angola's development.
- Celebration of 40 years of diplomatic relations.
- Upcoming events include Angola's 50th independence anniversary.
Luanda, Nov 9 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu conducted a significant meeting with her Angolan counterpart, Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco, on Sunday. The leaders reached an agreement to enhance their collaboration in various sectors, including energy partnerships, infrastructure, defence, health, agriculture, and digital technologies.
During the discussions, President Murmu reaffirmed India's dedication to being a dependable ally on Angola's path to development, both bilaterally and within the larger context of the India–Africa Forum Summit.
Both leaders also observed the signing and exchange of several Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) concerning cooperation in fisheries, aquaculture, marine resources, and consular matters.
The President's Secretariat, in a statement shared on X, noted, "President Droupadi Murmu engaged in extensive bilateral talks with President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco. The two leaders committed to furthering their cooperation in critical sectors such as energy, infrastructure, defence, health, agriculture, and digital technologies. President Murmu emphasized India's role as a trustworthy partner in Angola's developmental efforts, both bilaterally and through the India–Africa Forum Summit."
Key participants from the Indian delegation included the Minister of State for Jal Shakti and Railways, Shri V Somanna, as well as Members of Parliament Shri Parbhubhai Nagarbhai Vasava and Smt D. K. Aruna, alongside senior officials. The MoUs regarding collaboration in fisheries, aquaculture, marine resources, and consular matters were exchanged on this occasion.
Earlier that day, President Lourenco warmly welcomed President Murmu at the Presidential Palace in Luanda, where she received a ceremonial welcome and guard of honour.
The President's Secretariat elaborated in a statement on X, mentioning, "President Droupadi Murmu was greeted by President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco at the Presidential Palace in Luanda, Angola. Upon her arrival, she was given a ceremonial welcome and guard of honour."
President Murmu's visit to Luanda on Sunday was at the invitation of President Lourenco. She was received at the airport by Angola's Minister of External Relations, Tete Antonio, and the Vice Governor of Luanda province, Jorge Miguens.
According to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, President Murmu's visit is anticipated to further solidify the bilateral relationship.
"President Droupadi Murmu has arrived in Luanda, Angola's capital. This year marks the 40th anniversary of India-Angola diplomatic relations, and her visit is expected to enhance bilateral cooperation significantly," Jaiswal noted on X.
During her time in Angola, President Murmu will join in the 50th independence anniversary celebrations of Angola on November 11.
In a special briefing regarding President Murmu's visit to Angola held in New Delhi on Thursday, MEA's Secretary for Economic Relations, Sudhakar Dalela, mentioned that President Murmu is scheduled to address the Angolan parliament and engage with the Indian community in Angola.
"India and Angola share a strong bond of friendship and cooperation that has been flourishing across numerous sectors. Our robust energy partnership with Angola continues to grow, building on the momentum created by the Angolan President's visit to India earlier this year. President Murmu's state visit will offer a chance to review the current state of our bilateral ties and to expand mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as agriculture, energy, trade, investments, technology, infrastructure, defence, and people-to-people connections," he stated.
Following her engagements in Angola, President Murmu is set to travel to Botswana from November 11-13 at the invitation of President Duma Gideon Boko, where she will hold discussions, address the National Assembly, and connect with the Indian community.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the strategic importance of President Murmu's visit to Angola. Strengthening ties with Angola not only enhances India's influence in Africa but also opens avenues for collaboration in vital sectors. The bilateral discussions reflect a commitment to mutual growth and highlight India's dedication to fostering partnerships within the continent. This approach aligns with India's long-term vision of being a reliable ally in global development.
NationPress
09/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main purpose of President Murmu's visit to Angola?
The main purpose of President Murmu's visit was to strengthen bilateral cooperation between India and Angola in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, defence, health, agriculture, and digital technologies.
What agreements were signed during the meeting?
During the meeting, several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed regarding cooperation in fisheries, aquaculture, marine resources, and consular matters.
What anniversary are India and Angola celebrating this year?
India and Angola are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year.
What events will President Murmu attend during her visit?
President Murmu will attend the 50th independence anniversary celebrations of Angola on November 11, and she is also scheduled to address the Angolan parliament.
Who accompanied President Murmu during her visit?
President Murmu was accompanied by the Minister of State for Jal Shakti and Railways, Shri V Somanna, and Members of Parliament Shri Parbhubhai Nagarbhai Vasava and Smt D. K. Aruna, along with senior officials.
