India and Angola have taken a major step in deepening bilateral relations by signing a series of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) across key sectors including energy, defence, digital infrastructure, and space technology.
The agreements were announced during Angolan President João Lourenço’s historic state visit to India—the first by an Angolan head of state in nearly four decades. The visit also marked the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Calling the visit “historic,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized its broader significance for India-Africa relations:
“India stood firmly with Angola during its struggle for independence. Today, we are building on that enduring friendship.”
Key Agreements and Strategic Cooperation
A major highlight was India’s offer of a $200 million Line of Credit to Angola to support the modernisation of its armed forces. This funding will support defence procurement, training, and maintenance partnerships.
India also pledged technical support in areas such as digital public infrastructure, space technology, and capacity building. New collaborations were outlined in healthcare, diamond processing, fertilisers, and critical minerals.
To promote closer ties, a youth exchange programme is in development.
International Collaboration
Angola became the 123rd signatory to the International Solar Alliance (ISA). India also invited Angola to join other global initiatives including:
- Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)
- Global Biofuels Alliance
- Big Cat Alliance
Prime Minister Modi also praised Angola’s upcoming chairmanship of the African Union and highlighted the Union’s permanent seat at the G20 during India’s presidency:
“India and the African Union are pillars of the Global South. We stand united in representing the hopes and aspirations of developing countries.”
Growing Trade and Economic Links
Bilateral trade currently stands at $4.2 billion, driven largely by Angola’s oil and gas exports. Angola is India’s second-largest African supplier of crude oil and LNG after Nigeria. Indian exports to Angola—worth around $700 million—include pharmaceuticals, vaccines, automobile components, plastics, and refined fuels.
Angola has sought Indian assistance to develop infrastructure for refining its newly discovered oil reserves, including offshore and onshore facilities.
Expanding India-Africa Engagement
India’s footprint across Africa has expanded significantly over the last decade, with 17 new embassies established and $12 billion in credit extended. India also provides $700 million in grant aid and supports digital infrastructure and vocational training across multiple African nations.
Last month, India and Africa held their first joint naval exercise, “AIKEYME,” underlining growing defence and maritime cooperation.
“India and Angola are natural partners in progress,” said Prime Minister Modi. “Together, we will elevate India’s partnership with the African Union to new heights.”
