President Droupadi Murmu will embark on a pioneering visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from October 13 to 19, becoming the first Indian head of state to do so. Her visit aims to strengthen Indian relations with African nations, coinciding with the African Union’s G20 membership. Key activities include bilateral discussions, signing of MoUs, and engagement with the Indian community.
President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to undertake a historic visit to Africa encompassing Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from October 13 to October 19, marking the inaugural trip by an Indian head of state to these three nations. This significant diplomatic endeavor underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its ties with African countries, as articulated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday. The visit is strategically important, coming on the heels of the African Union’s elevation to permanent membership within the G20 under India’s leadership. Dammu Ravi, Secretary for Economic Relations at the MEA, emphasized, “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.” President Murmu’s journey will commence in Algiers, capital of Algeria, on October 13. Notably, this will be the first visit by an Indian President to Algeria in history and marks the first state-level engagement between the two nations in nearly four decades. During her time in Algeria, President Murmu is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with her Algerian counterpart, preside over the India-Algeria Economic Forum, and inaugurate an India Corner at Hamma Garden in Jardin d’essai. Following Algeria, the President will proceed to Mauritania on October 16, where she is slated to meet with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani and engage with the modest Indian community, which comprises approximately 150 members. Furthermore, it is anticipated that four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) will be formalized during this visit, encompassing areas such as cultural cooperation and a visa-waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports. Subsequently, President Murmu will visit Malawi from October 17 to October 19, where she plans to convene with the Malawian leadership, key figures in trade and industry, and representatives from the Indian diaspora. She also aims to explore culturally and historically significant locales within Malawi.
The planned state visit by President Droupadi Murmu to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi signifies India’s strategic endeavor to reinforce its connections with Africa, which is a pivotal region in the context of global diplomacy and economic partnerships. The visit is noteworthy as it coincides with the African Union’s inclusion in the G20, reflecting a growing recognition of Africa’s integral role in international affairs. This trip is a demonstration of India’s broader objectives to engage with the Global South and create stronger ties that could promote mutual growth and development among the participating countries.
In conclusion, President Droupadi Murmu’s forthcoming visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi is a landmark occasion in Indian diplomacy, marking the first time an Indian head of state will visit these nations. It is a clear indication of India’s intention to bolster partnerships with African countries, facilitating cultural exchange and mutual cooperation through various agreements. This initiative is poised to enhance India’s influence within the African continent and underscores the importance of Africa in India’s global engagement strategy.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
