President Droupadi Murmu’s Upcoming State Visit to Africa: A Historic Milestone

President Droupadi Murmu will make a groundbreaking state visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from October 13 to 19, 2024. This visit, the first by an Indian head of state to these nations, aims to strengthen India’s partnerships in Africa, featuring bilateral talks, signing of MoUs, and engagements with the Indian community.

President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to embark on an unprecedented state visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from October 13 to October 19, 2024. This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first visit by an Indian head of state to these three African nations. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has noted that this visit is indicative of India’s strong commitment to reinforcing its partnerships with African countries. This diplomatic endeavor is positioned within the broader context of India’s evolving relationship with Africa, especially following the African Union’s inclusion as a permanent member of the G20 during India’s presidency last year. As stated by Dammu Ravi, the Secretary for Economic Relations at the MEA, “This visit should be seen in the context of Africa as a continent and how India wishes to engage, and is looking at having a stronger partnership with Africa. It’s a reflection of India-Africa growing partnership.” The visit will commence in Algiers on October 13, and it represents not only the first visit by an Indian President to Algeria but also a head of state-level visit for the first time in 39 years. During her stay, President Murmu will engage in bilateral discussions with the Algerian President and will also address the India-Algeria Economic Forum. Additionally, she will inaugurate an India Corner at Hamma Garden within the Jardin d’Essai. Following her engagement in Algeria, President Murmu will proceed to Mauritania on October 16. In Mauritania, she plans to hold discussions with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani and connect with the approximately 150 members of the Indian community residing there. Furthermore, four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed, which will encompass areas of cultural cooperation and a visa-waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports. From Mauritania, President Murmu will conclude her visit in Malawi from October 17 to 19, where she will meet with the local leadership, key figures from trade and industry, as well as members of the Indian diaspora. The itinerary will also include visits to various cultural and historical sites within Malawi.

The upcoming state visit of President Droupadi Murmu serves as a pivotal event in India-Africa relations. This visit emphasizes India’s strategic interest in enhancing ties with African nations, reflecting the continent’s importance in India’s foreign policy. The inclusion of the African Union in G20 discussions underscores a growing recognition of Africa’s role in global governance and economic collaboration. The planned engagements during this visit aim to foster deeper economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties, laying the groundwork for future partnerships between India and these African nations.

In summary, President Droupadi Murmu’s forthcoming visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi underscores India’s enduring commitment to strengthen its diplomatic and economic relations with African countries. This visit marks a historic occasion as it is the first time an Indian head of state will visit these nations. The agenda includes significant bilateral discussions, the signing of key agreements, and engagement with the Indian diaspora, reinforcing the narrative of India as an active partner in Africa’s development.

Original Source: indianexpress.com