President Droupadi Murmu held comprehensive bilateral discussions with President João Lourenço of Angola in Luanda today, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between the two nations. The meeting resulted in the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) focused on enhancing cooperation in fisheries, aquaculture, marine resources, and consular affairs, underscoring both countries’ commitment to expanding their partnership.
President Murmu also welcomed Angola’s decision to join two major international initiatives spearheaded by India — the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) and the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) — both aimed at advancing global sustainability and environmental conservation.
Reaffirming India’s commitment to being a reliable development partner in Angola’s growth, President Murmu highlighted that cooperation would continue both bilaterally and under the India-Africa Forum Summit framework. The two leaders discussed opportunities to deepen collaboration in energy, infrastructure, defence, healthcare, agriculture, and digital technologies, reflecting the growing scope of India-Angola relations.
President João Lourenço acknowledged that the frequency of high-level visits — including his own trip to New Delhi earlier this year — reflects the increasing importance both countries place on their partnership. He pointed out that joint ventures in health, aerospace, and defence would be particularly beneficial for Angola’s long-term progress.
Lourenço expressed a strong interest in healthcare cooperation, praising the expertise of Indian medical professionals and expressing a desire to train more Angolan students in India at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Addressing Angola’s current health challenges, he cited cancer treatment as a key area for collaboration, adding that Angola’s new oncology hospital could greatly benefit from Indian medical technology, training, and equipment.
On the aerospace front, President Lourenço noted India’s technological advancement and conveyed Angola’s willingness to partner in this field. In defence, he emphasized that Angola is keen not only to import Indian equipment but also to set up manufacturing units with Indian firms on Angolan soil, promoting local industry growth.
Earlier in the day, President Murmu received a Ceremonial Welcome and Guard of Honour at the Presidential Palace, followed by a Banquet Lunch hosted by President Lourenço.
President Murmu’s visit to Angola and Botswana — from November 8 to 13, 2025 — marks the first-ever visit by an Indian Head of State to both nations. During her stay, she will attend Angola’s 50th Independence Day celebrations, address the National Assembly, and meet members of the Indian community. She will then travel to Botswana on November 11 for the second phase of her African tour, accompanied by Minister of State V. Somanna, MPs Parbhubhai Vasava and D. K. Aruna, and senior officials.
