India-Africa ties ‘rooted in centuries of civilizational linkages’: MoS Margherita
The Yuva Bharat Global Forum, organised by the ChakBal Group, was held at Bharat Mandapam, bringing together distinguished ambassadors, senior officials, representatives from think tanks, business chambers, and members of the media.
Addressing the gathering, Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, underlined that India- Africa relations are entering a transformative and decisive phase, anchored in shared history and future-oriented collaboration.
He stated that India-Africa ties are “rooted in centuries of civilizational linkages, strengthened through trade, cultural exchange, and a shared struggle against colonialism.”
He further added that the continent remains “central to India’s global engagement, guided by the principles of equality, mutual respect, and shared growth.”
He further highlighted that the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’ aligns closely with Africa’s ‘Agenda 2063’, as both focus on inclusive and sustainable development.
The Minister underscored that India’s development partnership with Africa prioritises “capacity building, employment generation, technology transfer, digital empowerment, and climate collaboration,” adding that “this is a partnership based not on extraction, but on empowerment.”
Highlighting India’s developmental initiatives, he noted that programmes such as ITEC and ICCR scholarships have contributed significantly to building human capital, while India’s diplomatic outreach has expanded with 17 new missions across Africa, taking the total to 46.
He also acknowledged the role of the three-million-strong Indian diaspora across Africa, describing it as a vital bridge that continues to strengthen economic and cultural ties.
The Minister noted that collaboration in defence, security, and maritime domains is gaining momentum, guided by the Vision MAHASAGAR, aimed at ensuring stability and security in the Indian Ocean region.
Commending the Chakbal Group, he stated that platforms like Yuva Bharat Global Forum play an important role in fostering dialogue and strengthening partnerships, at a time when India–Africa engagement is evolving towards more dynamic framework.
