“Mutual Growth and Respect Drive India-Africa Relations: S. Jaishankar”

Africa Holds Central Place in India’s Foreign Policy: S. Jaishankar India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has emphasized that Africa now occupies a central position in India’s foreign policy, reflecting deepening political, economic, and strategic engagement between the two regions. He highlighted that India’s approach toward African nations is guided by principles of mutual respect, capacity building, and sustainable development rather than extractive partnerships. Over the years, India has expanded cooperation in sectors such as healthcare, education, digital technology, agriculture, and infrastructure, while also increasing trade and investment ties. Jaishankar noted that India’s development partnership model focuses on empowering local communities and supporting African priorities, including skill development and institution building. He also underlined the importance of collaboration in multilateral forums, where India and African countries often share common interests on global issues like climate change, energy security, and reform of international institutions. The statement reflects India’s broader vision of strengthening South-South cooperation and building long-term, people-centric partnerships with African nations.