Africa-Press – Botswana. President Droupadi Murmu will start a six-day state visit to Angola and Botswana this weekend, intending to strengthen India’s relationship with Africa in defense, trade, and energy security.
During the inaugural official visit by an Indian leader to both nations, Murmu will speak to their legislators and engage in talks about the import of energy and essential minerals, which are crucial topics given the relationship between Delhi and Washington regarding the procurement of Russian oil.
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According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India is expected to receive cheetahs from Botswana in a few weeks, with the announcement likely to be made during the President’s upcoming visit to the country.
“The President of India will be paying a state visit to Angola and Botswana from November 8 to 13. This will be the first-ever state visit by an Indian head of state to Angola and Botswana,” says MEA Secretary (Economic Relations), Sudhakar Dalela.
According to him, India’s involvement with Africa is increasing and President Murmu’s trip to the two countries should be viewed within the broader scope of India’s focus on enhancing the relationship with the region.
He also noted that India’s trade with Africa is nearing $100 billion.
“India’s growing engagement with Africa is also in consonance with the government’s priority of strengthening partnerships with countries in the Global South,” he said.
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“Murmu is set to engage in discussions with the Angolan Minister of Foreign Affairs and take part in the festivities commemorating the 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence. Additionally, she will deliver a speech at the Angolan Parliament and engage with the Indian community residing in Angola during her visit”.
Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco visited India in May and invited the President to visit his country.
“Our partnership with Angola from an energy security perspective is critical. We would like to explore ways to build momentum and depth in our partnership in the energy sector,” Dalela said.
President Murmu, during her visit to Botswana from November 11 to 13, will hold bilateral talks with her counterpart Duma Boko. “The two leaders will discuss and explore new avenues to enhance bilateral cooperation in areas of investment, technology, energy, agriculture, health, pharmaceuticals, defence and people-to-people ties,” Dalela said.
President Murmu is also scheduled to address the National Assembly of Botswana.
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“We are also engaging with Botswana for the translocation of Cheetahs to India as part of Project Cheetah,” he said.
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