External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to fostering long-term, sustainable partnerships with Africa, focusing on capacity-building, skill development, and technology transfer. Speaking virtually at the Japan-India-Africa Business Forum, he highlighted India’s approach, which contrasts with extractive economic models by promoting self-sustaining growth ecosystems.
Jaishankar emphasized India’s expanding economic ties with Africa, stating that bilateral trade has reached nearly $100 billion. Additionally, India has invested over $12 billion in concessional credit, supporting more than 200 infrastructure projects across the continent, including railways, power generation, agriculture, and water supply. These projects have created local employment and significantly impacted African communities.
Highlighting the shared vision of India and Japan, he noted their collaboration in infrastructure, technology, healthcare, and education, reinforcing their commitment to democratic values and economic growth. He also stressed the importance of the Global South’s representation in international decision-making, referencing India’s role in securing the African Union’s permanent G20 membership.
India’s engagement with Africa extends beyond trade and infrastructure, with initiatives such as the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, the Pan-African e-Network project, and digital public infrastructure efforts. The e-VidyaBharti and e-ArogyaBharti networks, launched in 2019, have provided tele-education and telemedicine opportunities for students from 19 African nations.
Concluding his address, Jaishankar expressed optimism about India-Japan-Africa collaboration, highlighting Japan’s investment potential, India’s industrial and digital strengths, and Africa’s emerging market and workforce. He emphasized that Africa’s economic growth will contribute to global stability and prosperity, with India and Japan playing a crucial role in supporting sustainable and inclusive development.
