New Delhi

S. Jaishankar on Thursday said Africa now occupies a central position in India’s foreign policy, with ties guided by equality, mutual respect and shared progress.

He made the remarks in New Delhi during the unveiling of the logo, theme and website for the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit-IV.

Shared Historical Bonds

Jaishankar said relations between India and Africa are rooted in long-standing civilisational links built through centuries of cultural exchange and human interaction. He added that these ties deepened when India supported African nations in their struggles against colonialism.

According to him, the shared history of struggle, resilience and aspiration continues to shape the partnership today.

Development Visions Aligned

The minister said India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 and Africa’s Agenda 2063 are complementary roadmaps focused on prosperity, sustainable growth and inclusive development.

Support for Global South Representation

Jaishankar also highlighted India’s support for Africa’s greater role in global governance. He described the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 during India’s 2023 presidency as a landmark step.

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He said the move reflected India’s belief that voices of the Global South must play a stronger role in shaping future global governance.