India and Africa’s Ties Extend Beyond Transactions, Affirms EAM Jaishankar

India’s Foreign Policy has stepped up its engagement with Africa in the last nine years, under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi, according to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Speaking at the 18th CII-EXIM Bank Conclave on the India-Africa growth partnership, Jaishankar emphasised that ties between India and Africa represent a shared struggle rather than a transactional relationship. He noted that India has strengthened its engagement with Africa, with 36 high-level visits from India and more than 100 high-level visits from Africa. Jaishankar highlighted India’s support for African countries during their fight for independence and against colonialism and apartheid. He also encouraged Indian pharma manufacturers and vaccine manufacturers to explore joint manufacturing facilities in African countries. The CII-EXIM Bank Conclave on India-Africa Project Partnership was launched in 2005, with the focus on trade, investments, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise creating shared value for business and industry between India and Africa.