New Delhi

Pabitra Margherita on Tuesday said the relationship between India and Africa is entering a “new and decisive phase”, with both sides preparing to elevate ties to a higher and more meaningful level.

Speaking at the Yuva Bharat Global Forum at Bharat Mandapam, Margherita said India and Africa are millennia-old civilisations linked through centuries of trade, commerce, culture and people-to-people exchanges. He added that the relationship was further strengthened through shared struggles against colonialism.

The minister referred to the recent unveiling of the logo, theme and website for the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit IV, to be held in Delhi from May 28 to May 31. The summit theme is “Enduring Partnership, Shared Vision.”

Margherita said the summit reflects a shared intent to deepen cooperation significantly. “Africa occupies a pivotal place in India’s foreign policy,” he said.

He added that defence, security and maritime cooperation are key pillars of engagement, guided by the MAHASAGAR vision, with India working alongside several African nations to promote security and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.

The minister also said India has expanded its diplomatic presence in Africa by opening 17 new missions in recent years, taking the total number of Indian missions on the continent to 46.

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Diplomats from countries including Kenya and Ethiopia also addressed the opening session of the forum.