In a landmark diplomatic moment that underscored historical solidarity and future-oriented partnership, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi warmly welcomed President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of Angola to India on May 3, 2025. The visit, the first by an Angolan head of state to India in 38 years, signified more than a ceremonial exchange—it marked a strategic recalibration of India–Angola ties and reinforced India’s enduring commitment to Africa.
“This is a historic moment,” Prime Minister Modi said, addressing the joint press statement alongside President Lourenço. “His visit is not only giving a new direction and momentum to India-Angola ties, but also strengthening India-Africa partnership.”
Celebrating Four Decades of Diplomatic Relations
While 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of formal diplomatic ties between India and Angola, Prime Minister Modi emphasised that the foundations of friendship go much deeper. “When Angola was fighting for its freedom, India stood by it with unwavering faith and friendship,” he reminded the gathering, reflecting the moral continuity that guides India’s engagement with post-colonial nations.
Expanding Economic and Strategic Cooperation
India is one of the largest importers of Angolan oil and gas, but the partnership is now moving beyond hydrocarbons. “We have decided to expand our energy partnership,” PM Modi announced. One of the most significant outcomes of the visit was the approval of a $200 million Line of Credit for the modernisation of Angola’s armed forces, including collaboration in the repair and overhaul of defence platforms and training programs.
The two sides also agreed to explore partnerships in Digital Public Infrastructure, Space Technology, and Capacity Building, with India sharing its transformative development model with Angola. “Today, we have also decided to strengthen our relations further in the healthcare, diamond processing, fertiliser, and critical minerals sectors,” the prime minister noted.
A People-Centric Partnership
The ties between India and Angola are not limited to commerce and security—they are also deeply cultural. “The popularity of Yoga and Bollywood in Angola reflects the deep cultural connection between our two countries,” PM Modi said, adding that a Youth Exchange Programme will soon be launched to build bridges between future generations of both nations.
Angola’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance was also celebrated. PM Modi invited Angola to participate in other key Indian-led global initiatives such as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Big Cat Alliance, and the Global Biofuels Alliance, reinforcing mutual interests in sustainability, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
A Shared Stand Against Terrorism
Terrorism emerged as a central concern in the dialogue, with the Prime Minister expressing gratitude to Angola for its solidarity following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. “We are committed to taking firm and decisive action against the terrorists and those who support them,” he asserted. “We thank Angola for its support in our fight against cross-border terrorism.”
Strengthening the Voice of the Global South
The visit comes at a time when Angola assumes the chairmanship of the African Union, a milestone that PM Modi hailed with pride. “On behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my best wishes to Angola for its chairmanship of the African Union,” he said, recalling how India advocated for the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20 during its own presidency.
He further emphasised, “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.”
Looking Ahead
India’s relationship with Africa has grown significantly over the last decade. PM Modi detailed how India has opened 17 new embassies in Africa, allocated $12 billion in credit lines, and provided $700 million in grant assistance. New vocational training centres, digital public infrastructure partnerships, and humanitarian responses have further cemented India’s image as a trusted development partner.
“India and the African Union are partners in progress. We are pillars of the Global South,” PM Modi declared with optimism. “I am confident that under Angola’s leadership, the relationship between India and the African Union will reach new heights.”
With this visit, India and Angola have not only reaffirmed their shared legacy but also set a dynamic course for the future—one rooted in mutual respect, strategic convergence, and a vision of inclusive growth.
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