Jaishankar Marks Africa Day 2026 in New Delhi, Highlights $93 Billion India-Africa Trade

During the event, the External Affairs Minister highlighted the common struggle against colonialism that has shaped the relationship between India and Africa. He also emphasized the deep cultural connections between the two sides while noting the rapid growth in their economic engagement.

He stated that bilateral trade between India and Africa reached $93 billion last year, while Indian investments exceeded $80 billion across sectors including telecommunications, energy, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure. He also announced the delivery of $10 million worth of medical equipment to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

Recalling the historical bond between India and Africa, Jaishankar said India gave Africa Mahatma Gandhi, while Africa returned the Mahatma to India. He further called for Africa to play a central role in an emerging multipolar world and stressed the importance of the next India-Africa Forum Summit in strengthening the partnership between the two sides.

The celebration reaffirmed India's commitment to expanding its strategic, economic, and developmental engagement with Africa while highlighting the growing significance of the relationship in a changing global order.