Latest news with #Lourenço
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
07-05-2025
- Business
- First Post
How Angola-India partnership can become a blueprint for Delhi's Africa strategy
While the Angola-India ties had previously been transactional and narrow, the recent visit of President Lourenço has opened doors for a multidimensional partnership built on mutual respect, strategic alignment, and shared developmental goals. read more Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço's historic state visit to India from May 2 to May 4, 2025, marked a pivotal turning point in the bilateral relations between the two nations. This was the first visit by an Angolan head of state in nearly four decades and coincided with the 40th anniversary of India-Angola diplomatic relations. Despite the cloud cast by the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the visit proceeded without delay, underscoring both nations' resolve to strengthen ties and expand their global engagement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India and Angola, though geographically distant and linguistically diverse, are connected by historical threads of post-colonial solidarity, economic complementarity, and growing strategic convergence. Angola, located on the Atlantic coast of Africa, is rich in oil and minerals and forms part of the Lusophone African community. India, on the other hand, has long-standing relations with Angola's neighbours, such as Mozambique and Namibia, but its ties with Angola remained underdeveloped for much of the past two decades, especially during the tenure of former Angolan President José Eduardo dos Santos. During that period, Chinese engagement in Angola was dominant, leaving limited room for deeper Indo-Angolan interaction. However, since President Lourenço took office in 2017, Angola has increasingly recognised India's capabilities and potential contributions to its development journey. With Chinese investment in Angola declining and US tariffs beginning to bite, Angola is actively diversifying its international partnerships. India's development-centric foreign policy and its growing economic and technological clout make it a natural partner in this quest. During his visit to Johannesburg to attend the BRICS Summit, Lourenco met PM Modi on July 26, 2018, and discussed ways to enhance trade and investment between the two countries and also to deepen cooperation in sectors like energy, agriculture, food processing and pharmaceuticals. Energy and Economic Cooperation One of the major highlights of the visit was the reaffirmation of the centrality of energy cooperation in India-Angola relations. Angola is India's second-largest source of oil in Africa after Nigeria. Bilateral trade reached $4.2 billion in 2023–24, largely driven by oil exports to India. Both countries agreed to expand cooperation in oil exploration, refining, and energy infrastructure development. India also expressed a keen interest in participating in Angola's diamond sector, critical minerals exploration, and fertiliser production. Angola benefits from duty-free exports of oil to the US worth $700 million under the African Growth and Opportunity Act. Yet it faces 37 per cent new tariffs. China is its largest buyer of oil. As a Least Developed Country (LDC), Angola is entitled to access the Indian market under Duty Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) but lacks exportable items. Agricultural development and greater self-reliance in food security are among its aims. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The visit saw active participation from business leaders, with targeted meetings aimed at enhancing trade, investments, and joint ventures. The Angolan delegation included key ministers who arrived in India ahead of the president to facilitate focused bilateral talks, reflecting the seriousness with which Angola approached the visit. Defence and Strategic Engagement Another cornerstone of the visit was the deepening of defence ties. India approved a $200 million rupee-denominated line of credit for Angola to support its defence modernisation efforts. Discussions included the supply of military equipment, joint defence production, training for Angolan military personnel, and maintenance of existing Russian platforms. Angola's openness to Indian defence cooperation is a notable shift, signifying trust and alignment on strategic interests. In a symbolic and powerful gesture, Angola condemned the Pahalgam terror attacks, aligning itself with India's stance on terrorism and offering solidarity at a crucial moment. This move reflects a deeper understanding of India's security concerns and global worldview, contributing to the growing warmth in their bilateral relationship. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Technological Collaboration and Capacity Building India also showcased its leadership in digital and technological domains during the visit. Offers to share expertise in digital public infrastructure, space technology, and e-governance were welcomed by the Angolan side. A youth exchange programme was proposed to strengthen people-to-people contacts and foster cultural understanding between the two nations. Capacity-building initiatives in healthcare, agriculture, and education also featured prominently. Angola expressed interest in India's affordable healthcare solutions, pharmaceutical industry, and vocational training programmes. The two countries are expected to collaborate on skilling, which could significantly benefit Angola's young population. Environment and Sustainability The visit saw Angola joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as its 123rd member, signalling a shared commitment to sustainable energy. India extended invitations to Angola to participate in the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), the Big Cat Alliance, and the Global Biofuels Alliance. These engagements reflect the broadening of bilateral cooperation into climate action and environmental conservation—areas of increasing global importance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Diplomatic and Regional Significance The ceremonial welcome accorded to President Lourenço at Rashtrapati Bhavan, delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and his meeting with President Draupadi Murmu underscored the high-level nature of this engagement. A business forum brought together investors and stakeholders from both sides, focusing on oil, gas, mining, agriculture, and infrastructure. Besides EAM, the President also met health minister Nadda, but a meeting with Raksha Mantri fell through due to scheduling issues in the context of the Pakistan situation. Importantly, Angola currently holds the rotating chair of the African Union (AU). In a significant diplomatic signal, India reinstated the tradition of inviting the AU Chair for a state visit. Angola's position as AU Chair adds weight to its call for an early convening of the fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-IV). Angola is expected to lobby within the AU to ensure the summit takes place during its chairmanship, potentially co-chairing the event with India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This visit thus has regional and continental implications. Angola is a member of several African regional economic blocs like the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). Its support for deeper India-Africa engagement could create new momentum for multilateral cooperation across the continent. The Road Ahead President Lourenço's visit to India has ushered in a new era of strategic partnership between the two countries. It highlighted mutual interests, ranging from energy and defence to the digital economy and climate resilience. While the relationship had previously been transactional and narrow, this visit has opened doors for a multidimensional partnership built on mutual respect, strategic alignment, and shared developmental goals. India's efforts to re-engage Africa, especially Lusophone Africa, are gaining traction. With Angola's renewed openness to diversifying its partnerships, the bilateral relationship is now poised to enter a new phase—one that reflects the evolving contours of South-South cooperation in a multipolar world. If follow-through measures match the diplomatic optimism, the India-Angola partnership will not only deepen but also emerge as a model for India's broader engagement with Africa. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The author is a former ambassador to Germany, Indonesia, Ethiopia, ASEAN and the African Union. He tweets @AmbGurjitSingh. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views.
United News of India
04-05-2025
- Business
- United News of India
Angola, chair of African Union, condemns Pahalgam terror attack, backs India on tackling cross-border terrorism
New Delhi, May 3 (UNI) Angola, the current chair of the 55-member African Union, today condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and expressed solidarity with India in tackling terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism, during the New Delhi visit of Angolan President João Goncalves Lourenço, who held bilateral talks with PM Modi. Prime Minister Modi, in his address following the talks with the Angolan President, said referring to the Pahalgam terror attacks: 'We both agree that terrorism is the biggest threat to humanity. I thanked President Lourenço and the people of Angola for their condolences on the loss of lives in the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.' PM Modi also reiterated that India is determined to hunt down the perpetrators and backers of the April 22 terror attack. 'We are committed to take firm and decisive action against the terrorists and those who support them. We thank Angola for their support in our fight against cross - border terrorism.' Secretary ER Dammu Ravi, briefing newspersons on the talks, said that during the press briefing by the two leaders 'there was a very strong message, and also during the delegation level talks. President Lourenço condemned the heinous cowardly act … terrorist act in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. And there was condemnation of it, expressed condolences to the bereaved families and solidarity with India in tackling terrorism in all its forms, including the cross-border terrorism.' PM Modi in his other remarks said that both nations have close cooperation in various sectors. India is one of the largest buyers of Angola's oil and gas. India has decided to expand the energy partnership. 'I am pleased to announce the approval of a $200 million defense credit line for the modernization of Angola's armed forces. We have also discussed the repair and overhaul of defense platforms and supplies. India would be glad to cooperate in the training of Angola's armed forces,' he said. He said India will share its capabilities with Angola in Digital Public Infrastructure, Space Technology, and Capacity Building. 'Today we have also decided to further strengthen our relations in the sectors of Healthcare, Diamond processing, fertilizer and Critical minerals. The popularity of Yoga and Bollywood in Angola reflects the deep cultural connection between our two countries. To strengthen our people-to-people relations, we have decided to start a Youth Exchange Programme among our youth.' He congratulated Angola on assuming chair of the African Union. 'It is a matter of great pride for us that the African Union was granted permanent membership of the G20, during India's G20 presidency. India and African countries raised their voices in unison against colonial rule, inspiring one another in the process. Today, we stand united in advocating for the interests, hopes, expectations, and aspirations of the Global South,' the PM said. He said India's cooperation with African countries has gained momentum in the last decade, with the mutual trade reaching nearly $100 billion. There has been progress in defence cooperation and maritime security. 'Last month, the first naval maritime exercise between India and Africa, 'AIKEYME' was conducted. Over the past decade, we have established 17 new embassies across Africa. Credit lines worth more than $12 billion have been allocated for Africa. Apart from this, grant assistance of $700 million has been given to African countries. Vocational training centres have been opened in eight African countries. We are collaborating with five African countries in the development of Digital Public Infrastructure. In times of disaster, we have been privileged to serve as 'First Responders', standing shoulder to shoulder with the people of Africa.' He expressed confidence that under Angola's leadership, the relationship between India and the African Union will reach new heights. The two sides inked some agreements following the talks: MoU on cooperation in the field of Ayurveda and other Traditional Systems of Medicine; MoU between on Cooperation in the Field of Agriculture; Cooperation in the Domain of Culture for the period 2025 -29; Angola signed the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement and became the 123rd member of the ISA; The Government of India has approved the Angolan request of Line of Credit of US$ 200 Million for defence procurement. UNI RN
Time of India
03-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
'Will take firm & decisive action against terrorists': PM Modi on Pahalgam attack
NEW DELHI: India is committed to taking "firm and decisive" action against the terrorists who perpetrated the Pahalgam attack and those who support them, said PM Narendra Modi amid repeated calls by the global community for restraint and de-escalation and as tensions soar with Pakistan, reports Sachin Parashar. After a bilateral meeting with visiting Angola President Joao Manuel Lourenco, Modi said both agreed that terror is the biggest threat to humanity. Modi delivered his media statement after the meeting in Hindi but switched over to English while talking about the April 22 attack. PM remark suggests India hasn't ruled out military operations The PM had done the same two days after the attack while speaking in Madhubani in Bihar where he, in his first response to the tourist massacre, pledged to identify, track and punish every terrorist and their backers. Modi's remarks on the Pahalgam attack, are significant as these suggest India hasn't given up on the military option for pursuing those who perpetrated the attack and their backers. Lourenço also strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack and expressed solidarity with the Indian people. As govt weighs punitive measures against Pakistan for its role in the attack, it has come under some serious pressure from friends and partners like the US, EU and Gulf countries to avoid any escalation and resolve the cross-border terrorism issue diplomatically. Modi was speaking days after US secretary of state Marco Rubio urged India to work with Pakistan to de-escalate and work for peace in south Asia. His counterpart S Jaishankar had responded by saying that the perpetrators must be brought to justice. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Google Brain Co-Founder Andrew Ng, Recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo 'I thanked President Lourenço and the people of Angola for their condolences on the loss of lives in Pahalgam. India is committed to taking firm and decisive action against the terrorists and those who support them. We thank Angola for their support in our fight against cross-border terrorism,'' said the PM, while announcing an expansion of the energy partnership with the southwestern African country that is an important supplier of oil and gas to India. Modi also announced a $200 million defence credit line for the modernisation of Angola's armed forces.
The Print
03-05-2025
- Business
- The Print
Angola to source defence equipment from India, Modi announces $200 million credit line
'I am happy to announce that a defence credit line of $200 million has been approved for the modernisation of Angola's forces. Repair and overhaul and supply of defence platforms have also been discussed. We will be happy to cooperate in the training of Angola's armed forces,' said Modi, during a joint press statement with President Lourenço. New Delhi: Angola will be sourcing defence equipment from India, especially to overhaul its aging Soviet-era defence platforms, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday announced a $200-million line of credit during President João Manuel Goncalves Lourenço's maiden state visit to India. The Indian prime minister also announced that the two countries are looking to broaden their energy partnership. For India, Angola is the second largest supplier of oil and liquid natural gas (LNG) from the African continent after Nigeria. Of the roughly $3.5 billion worth of export of goods from Luanda to New Delhi, around 90 percent is energy supplies. At a special briefing after the press statements, Dammu Ravi, the Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), highlighted that Luanda has a fleet of Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets, for example, which requires repair and overhauling, which India could aid in. 'They (Angola) will be sourcing defence equipment from India. Already, they are in touch with the private companies and also public sector companies for various items to be sourced from India and the important aspect is there is a commonality—they have a large number of Soviet defence equipment, which needs to be serviced, overhauled and (requires) maintenance,' Ravi said. He added that even before the visit, there were some discussions among public sector units of the two countries as well as the private sector businesses for Angola sourcing transport equipment and ammunition from India. A meeting between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Angolan counterpart Joao Ernesto Dos Santos was expected to be held Friday. However, the meeting was cancelled due to scheduling issues. The Angolan president is the first Head of State to visit India following the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. During his talks with Modi, Lourenço condemned the attack and conveyed his condolences to the victims. The President of Angola is also the current chair of the African Union (AU). The larger organisation has not made a statement on ghastly attack. 'We are committed to take firm and decisive action against the terrorists and those who support them. We thank Angola for their support in our fight against cross-border terrorism,' Modi said during the joint press statement. At least four terrorists killed 26 tourists—25 Indians and one foreign national—near Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on 22 April, in what was one of the deadliest attacks against civilians in the region in recent years. The two countries also exchanged three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of agriculture, traditional medicine and culture. A framework agreement for Angola's entrance into the International Solar Alliance (ISA) was also signed. This is the first major visit by the President of Angola to India since 1987. Apart from defence and security, the Angolan president also requested India's aid in the health sector and agriculture, as Luanda looks to become self-sufficient in food. Modi and Lourenço also sought deeper cooperation in the railway sector. Currently, Angola has three railway lines connecting the coastal parts of the country in the West to the interiors in the East. There are no interconnections between the three lines. One of the country's rail lines is also a part of the Lobito corridor, a US and European Union (EU)-led project to connect the mineral rich Katanga province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, to the port of Lobito in Angola, via Zambia. The Lobito Corridor was announced on the margins of the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi in September 2023, alongside the India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). (Edited by Ajeet Tiwari) Also read: First Angolan president to visit India in 38 yrs, Lourenço receives ceremonial welcome
See - Sada Elbalad
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
Angolan President Visits Grand Egyptian Museum
Ali abo dashish The Grand Egyptian Museum welcomed Angolan President João Lourenço, who currently serves as the Chair of the African Union, during his official visit to Egypt. Accompanied by his wife and the Egyptian Ambassador to Angola, President Lourenço toured the museum, which continues to attract global dignitaries ahead of its anticipated grand opening. The visit was led by Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, who guided the delegation through key highlights of the museum. The tour included the main hall, the grand staircase, and the principal exhibition galleries, showcasing the museum's rich cultural heritage and architectural grandeur. Dr. Khaled also shared updates on the final preparations for the museum's official inauguration, scheduled for July 3. The opening is expected to mark a major milestone for cultural tourism in Egypt and reinforce the museum's status as one of the most important archaeological institutions in the world. President Lourenço expressed his admiration for the museum's scale, design, and significance, commending Egypt's efforts in creating a world-class cultural landmark. @Ali Basha read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Videos & Features Bouchra Dahlab Crowned Miss Arab World 2025 .. Reem Ganzoury Wins Miss Arab Africa Title (VIDEO) Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple
