Jaishankar calls Africa key partner and priority for India
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that Africa is a key partner and a priority for India. He asserted that the continent must be given its due place whether one speaks of a multipolar world order or of a reformed multilateralism. Moreover, he said that India continues to maintain close contact with the African Union and looks forward to reconvening the deferred India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-4).
He stated ‘Earlier this year, we were ready to host the African leadership at the fourth India Africa Forum Summit. Unfortunately, the outbreak of the Ebola virus led to the postponement of the Summit. The decision to postpone it was jointly taken by our partners of the African Union and India.’ He said ‘Together, we represent not only a very significant share of the world’s population, but also a powerful joint force for global progress. Building on our shared foundations and ambitions, our two sides are ready to grasp opportunities, and co-create a bright future, one based on innovation and sustainability, and that drives our country and the Global South and the world to a better tomorrow.’
He also underlined that human resource development remains at the heart of engagement with Africa and the partnership has proven its strength and resilience during crises. He added ‘Whether it was the Covid pandemic, natural disasters, humanitarian emergencies, India has always stood firmly with Africa, guided by the ancient Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - the world is one family. And, we know that Africa has a similar outlook in Ubuntu - I Am Because We Are’.
Besides, he said that India has opened 17 new diplomatic missions in recent years, expanding the country's resident footprint to 46 African nations. he said ‘India is a strong votary of Africa's rightful place in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC). We, similarly, seek your support to ensure India's permanent seat on the UNSC’.
