President Droupadi Murmu will make a landmark visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from October 13 to 19, marking the first by an Indian Head of State to these nations. During her trip, she will engage in high-level meetings, sign significant agreements, and promote India’s ongoing commitment to strengthening partnerships within the Global South, particularly in the wake of the African Union’s recent inclusion as a G20 member.
President Droupadi Murmu is set to embark on a historic visit to three African nations—Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi—from October 13 to October 19, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This marks the first visit by an Indian Head of State to these nations. MEA Secretary (ER) Dammu Ravi highlighted the significance of this trip, stating, “Africa is the core of the global south, as the PM had been driving the agenda. Voice of the Global South has been done with the agenda of development. We believe that partnerships with Africa are very important and critical for our own growth and the growth of the global south.” Upon her arrival in Algeria on October 13, President Murmu will engage with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, marking a key diplomatic interaction following his recent re-election. This visit is particularly poignant as it is the first at such a high level from India in 39 years. The President’s itinerary includes an Indian community reception, a visit to the Maqam Echahid monument honoring those who perished during the Algerian War of Independence, and discussions aimed at enhancing the India-Algeria relationship through the Algeria-India Economic Forum and other collaborative ventures in various sectors such as oil, gas, defense, and space technology, as outlined by the MEA. The second leg of her journey will take her to Mauritania on October 16, which also symbolizes a significant milestone being the first visit by an Indian leader since Mauritania achieved independence in 1960. President Murmu is scheduled to meet with Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani to discuss and sign four essential Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering cultural exchange, foreign office consultations, and diplomatic visa waiver agreements. This venture is anticipated to advance bilateral ties between the two countries. President Murmu will then proceed to Malawi on October 17, upon invitation from the Malawian President. She is expected to hold discussions with him, engage in business dialogues, and connect with the Indian diaspora. During this leg of the trip, three MoUs focusing on youth affairs, sports, and cultural exchange will be finalized, reaffirming India’s commitment to its relations with Malawi. The visit will conclude with President Murmu’s departure for India from Malawi on October 19. The MEA emphasized that this state visit is indicative of India’s intent to strengthen partnerships with African nations, particularly in light of the African Union’s recent induction as a permanent member of the G20 during India’s presidency. In summary, President Murmu’s upcoming visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi marks a pivotal moment in strengthening India’s relationships within Africa, reflecting the ongoing commitment to global partnership and development.
India has increasingly recognized the importance of fostering relationships with African nations as part of its broader strategy to enhance partnerships in the Global South. This region is crucial not only for geopolitical reasons but also for economic collaboration that can facilitate mutual growth. The recent elevation of the African Union to a permanent member status in the G20 speaks to Africa’s rising prominence on the world stage. President Murmu’s visit is poised to establish stronger ties through high-level engagements and agreements across diverse sectors such as culture and technology.
In conclusion, President Droupadi Murmu’s inaugural visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi exemplifies India’s commitment to enhancing its diplomatic and economic relationships with African nations. This historic trip, marked by significant agreements and discussions, aligns with India’s ongoing efforts to engage more deeply with the Global South and reinforce its role on the international stage. The outcomes of this visit are expected to foster enduring partnerships that contribute to development and mutual growth.
Original Source: www.firstindia.co.in