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Key Points

PM Modi welcomed Angolan President Lourenco on his first India visit in 38 years, marking 40 years of diplomatic relations. India approved a $200 million defence credit line and pledged cooperation in energy, digital infrastructure and space technology. Both leaders emphasised strengthening people-to-people ties through cultural exchanges and youth programmes. The visit aims to elevate bilateral relations while reinforcing India's strategic partnership with Africa.

Key Points: Modi Approves $200M Angola Defence Credit in Historic Visit

  • $200M defence credit approved for Angola modernisation
  • Energy & digital infrastructure collaboration expanded
  • 40-year diplomatic ties celebrated with new youth exchange
  • Space tech & healthcare among key partnership areas
2 min read

India approves USD 200 million defence credit line for Angola; to collaborate in digital public infrastructure, space, healthcare

India boosts ties with Angola via defence, energy & digital partnerships during President Lourenco's first visit in 38 years.

"This is a historic moment... going to strengthen India-Africa ties - PM Narendra Modi"

New Delhi, May 3

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday welcomed Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco to India--the first such visit in 38 years--underscoring a renewed commitment to deepen bilateral ties and expand cooperation across sectors.

Marking 40 years of diplomatic relations, PM Modi hailed the historic solidarity between the two nations, and outlined a roadmap for future collaboration in energy, defence, digital infrastructure, healthcare, and cultural exchange.

At a joint press statement with Angolan President, PM Modi said, "I welcome President Lourenco and his delegation. This is a historic moment. After 38 years, the President of Angola has arrived in India. His visit is not only going to give a new direction to the relationship between India and Angola, but also going to strengthen India-Africa ties. India and Angola are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their political relations. However, our relationship goes way back. When Angola was fighting for its freedom, India was standing beside it with faith and friendship."

Speaking about the partnership between the two nations, PM Modi stated, "We are partnering across sectors. India is one of the largest buyers of oil and gas from Angola. We have decided to widen our energy partnership. India has approved a USD 200 million credit line for the modernisation of Angola's defence forces. We will share our experience in digital public infrastructure, space tech and capacity building with Angola."

He added, "We would be happy to assist in training Angola's armed forces. Taking forward our development partnership, we will share our capabilities with Angola in digital public infrastructure, space technology and capacity building. Today, we have also decided to further strengthen our ties in healthcare, diamond processing, fertilizer and critical minerals. The popularity of yoga and Bollywood in Angola is a symbol of the strength of our cultural ties. To strengthen our people-to-people relations, we have decided to start a youth exchange programme among our youth."

Earlier in the day, PM Modi met President Lourenco at Hyderabad House.

PM Modi, along with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, also held a bilateral meeting with President Lourenco at Hyderabad House.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is a strategic move by India! Angola is resource-rich and we need reliable partners in Africa. The defence credit line shows our commitment to mutual security. More such partnerships needed with African nations 🇮🇳🤝🇦🇴
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Priya M.
While I appreciate expanding ties, I hope this $200 million could have been used for domestic healthcare first. Our own hospitals need modernization. Good initiative but priorities should be balanced.
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Amit S.
Digital infrastructure collaboration is brilliant! Our UPI and other tech can help Angola leapfrog development stages. This is how India should position itself globally - as a tech solutions provider rather than just aid giver.
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Sunita R.
The youth exchange program is the most exciting part! Cultural connections through Bollywood and yoga can create lasting friendships. More such people-to-people initiatives please! ❤️
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Vikram J.
Smart diplomacy - Angola has oil and we need energy security. Also a good counter to Chinese influence in Africa. Hope this leads to more stable oil supplies at better prices for India.
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Neha T.
The diamond processing partnership could be game-changing for both countries. India's expertise + Angola's resources = win-win. Hope local artisans and small businesses also benefit from this collaboration.

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