Africa-Press – Angola. The President of India, Draupadi Murmu, reaffirmed on Monday in Luanda, her commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations with Angola, which this year completes 40 years since its establishment.
During her speech at the National Assembly of Angola, the Indian leader congratulated the Angolan people on their independence jubilee and praised “the courage and resilience” that marked the struggle for freedom.
Draupadi Murmu compared the process of Angola’s independence to that of India, underlining common values of self-determination and sovereignty.
The Indian President highlighted Angola’s progress in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, energy and tourism, noting that the country “emerges as a key participant in the history of Africa’s growth”.
She also highlighted that relations between the two countries are based “on mutual trust, respect and shared values.”
Draupadi Murmu recalled that India supported Angola’s anti-colonial efforts and that, currently, the two countries cooperate in international forums, in initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, the Global Biofuels Alliance and the International Big Cat Alliance.
The President also praised Angola’s role in leading the African Union (AU), recalling that, during India’s presidency of the G20 in 2023, the organization was admitted as a permanent member of the group.
She reiterated India’s commitment to the “10 principles” of cooperation with Africa, based on mutual respect and shared benefit.
Trade and economic cooperation were identified as pillars of the bilateral partnership.
Draupadi Murmu highlighted the potential for expansion in the areas of digital technology, defense, agriculture, and food processing, reinforcing the interest in deepening exchanges in these areas.
The Indian leader also highlighted the female representation in the Angolan Parliament, which exceeds 39%, as an example of gender equality and inclusive governance.
She also mentioned that India recently passed a law reserving one-third of parliamentary seats for women, underlining that democracy is only meaningful when it benefits all citizens, praising Angola’s initiatives to strengthen local governance.
Relations between Angola and India are cordial and cooperative established in 1985 and focused on commercial, economic, and technical partnerships.
India is Angola’s third-largest trading partner, driven mainly by imports of Angolan crude oil.
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