President Droupadi Murmu will make history this week as she embarks on the first-ever state visit by an Indian head of state to Angola and Botswana aimed at deepening diplomatic and economic ties with the two African nations.
The six-day visit, scheduled from 8-13 November, begins in Angola at the invitation of President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço.
The trip coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Angola and the 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday that Murmu will hold bilateral talks with Lourenço on 9 November, address the Angolan Parliament on Monday.
“President Murmu will be attending the 50th anniversary celebrations of Angola’s independence on November 11.”
She is also expected to engage with the Indian community in Angola.
The visit is expected to strengthen cooperation in sectors such as energy, trade and healthcare where India has supported Angola through capacity-building and technical assistance.
India and Angola have maintained cordial relations since the 1980s, with growing collaboration in pharmaceuticals, agriculture and education.
Angola is also a key partner in India’s outreach to Lusophone Africa.
On 11 November, President Murmu is due to travel to Botswana for the second leg of her visit, hosted by President Duma Boko.
She will hold bilateral talks on 12 November, address Botswana’s National Assembly, and visit cultural and historical sites.
India and Botswana share a longstanding partnership rooted in shared democratic values and development cooperation.
India has supported Botswana in areas such as ICT, vocational training and health, while trade and investment ties continue to expand.
The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit reflects India’s commitment to enhancing its engagement with Africa and will provide fresh momentum to bilateral cooperation with both countries.
JN/APA