New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on April 23, Thursday described India’s relationship with Africa as entering a “season of renewal”, as he launched the logo, theme and website of the India-Africa Forum Summit-IV in New Delhi. He said that the summit marks the next phase in a long-standing partnership between India and African nations, built on shared history and expanding cooperation. Speaking at the event, EAM Jaishankar said, “This is a season of renewal and of fresh beginnings and we gather at this joyous moment to mark the next chapter, the next chapter of the enduring partnership between India and Africa through the India Africa Forum Summit”. The theme of the forum is ‘Enduring Partnership Shared Vision’.
Highlighting the historical depth of ties, he noted that “our shared history of struggle, of solidarity, of opinion and of aspirations continues to shape our partnership”, underlining how past cooperation plays a role in present engagement. EAM Jaishankar pointed to the steady expansion of bilateral engagement, stating that “our engagement has grown across all key pillars with numerous high-level political interactions”. He added while emphasising his previous visits to the African countries, “I myself have made more than 20 visits to African countries and our Ministers of State (MoS) many more”.
Emphasising India’s growing diplomatic presence on the continent, the Minister said, “India has also expanded its diplomatic footprint in recent years by opening 17 new missions, new diplomatic missions across the African continent, taking the number of our missions there to 46″. He added that this clearly demonstrates our long-term commitment to engaging with every region of the continent, a defining feature of India-Africa relations is our shared vision for a more inclusive and Representative global order”.
Highlighting the significance of the India-Africa Forum Summit, EAM Jaishankar added, “The forthcoming Summit will shape the next phase of our partnership – one that is more ambitious, more inclusive and more future-oriented. It will enable us to exchange best practices, share successful experiences and discuss common challenges”. Underscoring the depth of India-Africa cooperation, EAM Jaishankar noted, India’s wide-ranging development partnership and capacity-building initiatives, driven by African priorities and local ownership. He also pointed to emerging areas of collaboration, stating that the partnership is expanding into “new frontiers of digital, fintech and innovation, reshaping economies across the African continent”.
Joined African Ambassadors and those invested in India-Africa friendship to launch the Logo, Theme and Website of 4th India Africa Forum Summit.
The forthcoming Summit will shape the next phase of our partnership – one that is more ambitious, more inclusive, and more… pic.twitter.com/3grZjhkGAM
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 23, 2026
Emphasising the sustainability efforts, he highlighted robust cooperation for a sustainable future, including deeper engagement in initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, Global Biofuels Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and International Big Cat Alliance. EAM Jaishankar further reaffirmed India’s support for Africa’s global role, noting that India’s consistent support to Africa’s rightful place in global governance was demonstrated in AU’s inclusion in G20 during India’s 2023 presidency.
India-Africa partnership resonates the message of stability in a turbulent world
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar stated that the India-Africa partnership holds “particular significance” amidst global geopolitical challenges, serving as a message of “stability” and “reliability” in a turbulent world. EAM Jaishankar emphasised that the two regions are not merely development partners, but also “partners in shaping a better world”. The Minister’s remarks come as the international community grapples with numerous conflicts, notably the ongoing crisis in West Asia, which has exceeded 50 days and continues to have widespread global consequences.
He Highlighted the importance of the alliance as the world navigates through complex geopolitical and geoecomic challenges. The Minister further explained that Africa currently occupies a “central place” in India’s foreign policy. This engagement is steered by a vision based on the “principle of equality”, mutual respect and collective advancement. Reflecting on historical ties, the External Affairs Minister said that the relationship is rooted in our civilisational linkages and was forged through centuries of cultural and human exchange. He added that these bonds were further strengthened as India stood in solidarity with the African nations in their struggle against colonialism.
He pointed out that India’s “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision and the “Africa’s Agenda 2063” serve as “complementary roadmaps” aimed at achieving prosperity through sustainable and inclusive growth. Beyond diplomacy, India has placed development cooperation and capacity-building at the “core of our partnership”, EM further added.
India-Africa defence partnership guided by MAHASAGAR vision
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar also underscored the importance of defence, security and maritime cooperation in India-Africa relations, highlighting the vision of ‘MAHASAGAR’ as the driving force. Highlighting the strategic dimension, EAM Jaishankar said, “Defence, security and maritime cooperation play an important role in our engagement. Driven by the Vision MAHASAGAR, we are working closely with many of you to ensure the security and stability of the Indian Ocean region, combat piracy, promote safe and open sea lanes and collaborate in UN peacekeeping operations.
He pointed to emerging areas of collaboration for India and Africa, stating, “Going forward, we are pushing new frontiers in digital, fintech and innovation, reshaping economies across the African continent. We look forward to a stronger focus on co-creation, mutual investments and joint innovation, aligned with our respective long-term development frameworks”, EAM asserted.
He also highlighted the symbolism of the India-Africa summit’s branding, saying, “Carrying forward this vision, the Summit features the lion uniquely native to both India and Africa-symbolising pride, courage and a shared identity. It brings together the maps of our two regions, once united in a single landmass”. EAM Jaishankar added, elaborating on the broader context of India-Africa partnership, “Our partnership seeks not just economic growth, but meaningful transformation. It is about empowering people, strengthening institutions and creating opportunities. He said, “Together, India and Africa are not just partners in development, we are partners in shaping a better world”.
(With Inputs from ANI)
