Addressing delegates at the Yuva Bharat Global Forum held at the Summit Room of Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Margherita emphasised that India and Africa share millennia-old civilisational ties, rooted in centuries of trade, commerce, and cultural exchanges. The event was attended by diplomats from multiple African nations stationed in India, along with representatives of organisations working to strengthen India-Africa relations.
He noted that the relationship has been historically reinforced by shared experiences, particularly the struggle against colonialism, which further cemented bonds between the two regions. Highlighting the evolving nature of this partnership, Margherita stated that the current moment reflects a transition towards a more structured and impactful engagement.
The minister also recalled the recent unveiling of the logo, theme, and official website for the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit IV in New Delhi, conducted in the presence of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The summit, scheduled from May 28 to May 31, carries the theme “Enduring Partnership, Shared Vision.” Its logo features a lion superimposed on interlocked maps of India and the African continent, symbolising unity and strength.
Jaishankar, during the unveiling event on April 23, described the India-Africa partnership as a pillar of “stability” and “reliability” amid an increasingly turbulent and uncertain global landscape marked by complex geopolitical and geoeconomic challenges.
Margherita reiterated that the upcoming summit demonstrates the intent of both India and African nations to elevate their partnership to a significantly higher level. He underscored the importance of defence, security, and maritime cooperation in bilateral engagement, guided by the vision of MAHASAGAR, with India actively collaborating with several African countries to ensure stability and security in the Indian Ocean Region.
Further highlighting India’s expanding diplomatic outreach, the minister stated that India has opened 17 new missions across Africa in recent years, taking the total number of Indian diplomatic missions on the continent to 46.
Diplomats from countries including Kenya and Ethiopia also shared their perspectives during the opening session, reinforcing the shared commitment to strengthening ties.
The developments mark a pivotal moment in India-Africa relations, as both sides align their strategic, economic, and diplomatic priorities to build a resilient partnership capable of navigating global uncertainties while advancing mutual growth and cooperation.
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