(Africa-India: time for a renewed strategic partnership in the service of shared prosperity)
On the eve of the 4th Summit of the Africa-India Forum planned for New Delhi, the High Commissioner of India to Benin delivers a column which highlights the historical depth and the new dynamics of relations between the two spaces. Between economic ambitions, strengthened cooperation and a common vision of inclusive development, he calls for making this meeting a decisive turning point for the future of the Africa-India partnership. Read his full message
Op Ed by High Commissioner on IAFS IV
The 4th edition of the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) will be held in New Delhi on May 31, marking a watershed moment in our bilateral relationships and representing a defining moment in our shared journey of growth, prosperity, and mutual respect. As India's representative in Benin, I am deeply encouraged by the momentum building across our continent and the pivotal role this gathering will play in shaping our collective future.
The India-Africa Forum Summit, established in 2008, represents far more than a diplomatic gathering. It is the apex institutional mechanism for India's comprehensive engagement with Africa, covering the entire spectrum of our relations with the African partners political dialogue, security cooperation, economic ties, trade relations, developmental support, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people connections.
India and Africa have long been bound by ties of history, culture, and shared aspirations. Our partnership is not new, it is built on decades of cooperation, people-to-people connections, and a commitment to supporting Africa's development. Yet what excites me most is how we are re imagining this relationship for the 21st century, one where both continents emerge as economic powerhouses and voices of reason in global affairs. In a notable address to the Parliament of Uganda, Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined 10 core principles for India's engagement with Africa. These include making Africa the top priority, deepening economic ties, and cooperating on global challenges like climate change and terrorism.
Over the past 15 years, what began as an idea has evolved into a robust partnership that reflects our shared commitment to the South-South cooperation model. India's development partnership with Africa speaks for itself. Africa is the second largest recipient of India's overseas development partnership support, a distinction that reflects our deep understanding of the continent's needs and our genuine commitment to its progress. The India-Africa Forum Summit is a testament to this commitment, with 190+ Lines of Credit extended to 41 African countries, totalling over US$10 billion, 20 completed projects worth US$4.5 billion, with several ongoing. These are transformational investments in sectors that directly impact the lives of African citizens, bringing electricity to villages, clean water to communities, modern transport infrastructure to regions, and digital access to the previously unconnected. This is development partnership done right, listening to our partners, investing in their priorities, and building capacity that endures long after the projects conclude.
Since the 3rd India-Africa Forum Summit held in 2015, the world has transformed dramatically. The Indian economy has grown exponentially, and Indian businesses have gone global. Similarly, African economic prowess and the opportunities that this dynamic continent offers have grown manifold. This therefore, is not the time for incremental engagement it is the time for transformation.
Benin is a nation of immense potential, embodying the dynamism and entrepreneurial spirit that define our continent. The India-Africa Forum Summit provides a unique opportunity for Indian businesses and Beninese enterprises to explore partnerships that can unlock new markets and create shared value.
From technology start-ups to manufacturing, from infrastructure development to energy solutions the possibilities are boundless. This summit is more than a diplomatic gathering; it is an invitation for all stakeholders governments, businesses, media, civil society, and young people to participate actively in building the Africa-India partnership of tomorrow.
As I look forward to this Summit, I am reminded of "Ubuntu" the African philosophy that "I am because we are." This resonates deeply with Indian values of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" which means the world is one family. Together, India and Africa can chart a path of inclusive growth, technological advancement, and human development that benefits not just our two regions, but humanity as a whole. The India-Africa Forum Summit is a celebration of this vision. It is a moment to reaffirm our commitment, renew our partnerships, and recommit ourselves to a future where both our continents thrive.
