Speaking at the celebration of the 54th National Unity Day of the Republic of Cameroon in New Delhi, Shri Sevala Naik Mude, Additional Secretary (Central & West Africa), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, announced the postponement of the much-anticipated 4th India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS), which was scheduled to take place later this month after a gap of nearly eleven years.
Addressing diplomats, government officials, and members of the African diplomatic community, Shri Mude stated that both India and the African Union had worked extensively over the past several months to organise what was envisioned as a “meaningful, ambitious, and outcome-oriented” summit aimed at elevating India–Africa cooperation to a new level.
However, he noted that the decision to postpone the summit was taken jointly by India and the African Union in view of the evolving public health situation in parts of the African continent. “India and the African Union jointly reviewed the situation and mutually agreed to postpone the Summit. The new dates will be finalised through consultations between India and the African Union and will be communicated in due course,” Shri Mude said.
While acknowledging that the postponement had delayed a long-awaited moment of engagement between India and Africa, he reaffirmed the enduring strength of the partnership between the two sides.
“India and Africa remain fully committed to our longstanding partnership founded on solidarity, mutual respect, South–South cooperation, and our shared commitment to peace, development, prosperity, and the well-being of our peoples,” he remarked.
Shri Mude further emphasised that India continues to stand in solidarity with African nations and remains committed to supporting Africa-led responses to emerging health challenges.
“India reiterates its solidarity with the peoples and governments of Africa and stands ready to contribute to Africa-led efforts in addressing the evolving health situation,” he stated.
The senior diplomat also underlined the deep historical and civilisational ties that continue to define India–Africa relations.
“India and Africa share deep civilisational, historical, and cultural linkages, alongside a robust trade and business partnership. Over centuries, these bonds have evolved into a trusted and reliable partnership between our peoples and our continents,” he said.
The 4th India–Africa Forum Summit was expected to bring together leaders, ministers, policymakers, and business representatives from across Africa and India to discuss cooperation in areas such as trade, health, technology, energy, infrastructure, capacity building, and Global South partnerships. The new dates for the summit are expected to be announced following further consultations between India and the African Union.
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