India-Africa Strategic Dialogue: Building Future Partnerships (2023)

The Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses is holding the fifth India-Africa Strategic Dialogue (IASD) on March 25-26. The main theme of the conference is “India and Africa: Partnership in the Next Decade.”

On the first day, Amb Anil Sooklal, the High Commissioner of South Africa to India, shared special remarks. Shri Dammu Ravi, Secretary of External Relations at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, gave the keynote address.

In his welcome note, Director General Amb Sujan R. Chinoy talked about how, in today’s world, India and Africa should come together to create a future based on shared values and work towards achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He said that India wants to collaborate with African nations on issues that matter to both sides. Aside from technology and education, there are opportunities to work together in areas like fighting terrorism, peacekeeping, and ensuring food and energy security. He also highlighted concerns about piracy and instability in the Red Sea.

Chinoy pointed out India’s significant contributions to UN peacekeeping operations in Africa and the Indian Navy’s efforts to strengthen maritime partnerships with African countries. He mentioned initiatives like the “Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across The Regions” (MAHASAGAR), showing that India-Africa ties are based on equality and mutual respect, shaped by Africa’s needs.

In his special remarks, Sooklal spoke about the historical connections between India and Africa and the importance of building on those ties. Both regions should work together to secure a better position on the global stage. He praised Prime Minister Modi’s famous speech in Uganda in 2018, which laid out India’s vision for engaging with Africa, aligning it with the African Union’s ‘Agenda 2063’.

Sooklal described Africa as the most overlooked continent and stated that it needs to become more united to tackle its challenges. He emphasized that in India, Africa has a reliable partner, and both leaders should unite to pave the way forward. He also mentioned the need for the private sector to play a crucial role in their partnership.

Dammu Ravi also shared similar thoughts in his keynote speech. He mentioned that India and Africa should create stronger and diverse business relationships. India is eager to grow trade and investment in Africa and to share knowledge and technology.

He encouraged using local currencies, barter trade, and technology financing to enhance trade with Africa. He reminded everyone that security is a vital part of development and that partnerships with Africa should include education and skill development.

The main goal of the India-Africa Strategic Dialogue is to strengthen current partnerships and find new ways to work together. The event gathers over 20 experts and policymakers from both regions to discuss important topics like trade, defense, and energy security.