India-Africa Partnership Enters Strategic Phase Amid Global Changes
A significant conference titled 'India-Africa Partnership in a Changing Global Order' was convened in New Delhi on Monday, where speakers emphasized that the bilateral relations between India and Africa are transitioning into a more strategic and dynamic phase. The event brought together key diplomats, policymakers, and scholars to assess the evolving trajectory of this crucial partnership.
Economic Diplomacy and South-South Cooperation Highlighted
Addressing the gathering, Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, underscored the importance of south-south cooperation in the current turbulent global landscape. He pointed out that disruptions in supply chains necessitate collaborative efforts in energy transition and climate action. Dalela reiterated Africa's pivotal role in India's economic diplomacy, framing the partnership within the principle of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the world is one family), which reflects a shared commitment to mutual growth and solidarity.
Trade Growth and Policy Roadmap
Speakers at the conference noted that India-Africa trade has already exceeded $100 billion in the 2024–25 period, with both sides setting an ambitious target to double this figure to $200 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by intensifying global competition and Africa's own integration initiatives, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area, which are reshaping engagement frameworks. Participants stressed the need for a clearer and more cohesive policy roadmap to sustain this momentum and unlock the full potential of the partnership.
Priority Areas for Future Collaboration
Anil Sooklal, South Africa's High Commissioner to India, identified several priority areas for the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit, including:
- Agricultural innovation and food security
- Skills development and capacity building
- Technological collaboration and infrastructure projects
Ambassador Anil Wadhawa added that cooperation in technology, ports, and infrastructure is essentially about "co-architecting futures in a changing global order," highlighting the forward-looking nature of the partnership.
Opportunities and Institutional Mechanisms
Delegates also pointed to significant opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, critical minerals, and digitization. However, they called for stronger institutional mechanisms and regular summit meetings to ensure sustained progress. The conference concluded that while India-Africa ties have evolved into a multidimensional partnership, they still require focused policy attention to realize their comprehensive potential.
Historical Context and Organizers
The discussions highlighted how historical solidarity, rooted in anti-colonial struggles and the legacy of the Bandung Conference, is now intersecting with contemporary developmental and strategic priorities. The conference was organized by the Chintan Research Foundation in collaboration with the USANAS Foundation, bringing together a diverse group of experts to foster dialogue and cooperation.
Overall, the event reinforced that India and Africa are poised to deepen their partnership, leveraging shared values and economic synergies to navigate the complexities of the global order.
