The state visit of the President of Angola to India on May 3, 2025, marked a significant milestone in strengthening India-Angola bilateral relations. The visit resulted in several agreements and initiatives aimed at fostering cooperation in diverse fields. Here are the key outcomes of the visit, as announced by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Delhi:
1. Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Agreements
- MoU on Ayurveda and Traditional Medicine: An agreement between India and Angola to promote cooperation in the field of Ayurveda and other traditional systems of medicine, facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity building.
- MoU on Agriculture: A pact to enhance collaboration in agriculture, focusing on technology transfer, research, and sustainable farming practices to boost Angola’s agricultural sector.
- Cultural Cooperation Programme (2025-2029): A programme to deepen cultural ties through exchanges in art, music, and heritage, fostering mutual understanding between the two nations.
2. Angola Joins the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
Angola signed the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement, becoming the 123rd member of the ISA. This step underscores Angola’s commitment to renewable energy and aligns with India’s leadership in promoting solar energy globally.
3. Defence Cooperation
The Government of India approved Angola’s request for a Line of Credit (LOC) worth US$ 200 million for defence procurement. This financial support will strengthen Angola’s defence capabilities and deepen strategic ties with India.
Significance of the Visit
The outcomes of this visit reflect India’s growing engagement with African nations, particularly Angola, a key partner in trade and energy. The agreements in traditional medicine, agriculture, and culture highlight the diverse areas of collaboration, while Angola’s ISA membership and the defence LOC signal a shared commitment to sustainable development and security.
Looking Ahead
These agreements pave the way for enhanced India-Angola cooperation, with potential for further collaboration in renewable energy, healthcare, and defence. The visit reinforces India’s role as a reliable partner in Africa’s development journey.