President Droupadi Murmu to Make Historic Visit to Algeria…

President Droupadi Murmu will embark on a historic visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from October 13 to 19, marking the first visit by an Indian head of state to these countries. This trip aims to strengthen India’s partnerships with African nations, coinciding with the African Union’s G20 membership. President Murmu will hold bilateral talks, address economic forums, and sign several MoUs during her visit.

President Droupadi Murmu is set to make a historic journey to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from October 13 to 19, marking the first official visit by an Indian head of state to these nations. This trip underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its partnerships with African countries, as emphasized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The timing of this visit coincides with the African Union’s recognition as a permanent member of the G20, achieved during India’s Presidency last year. Dammu Ravi, Secretary of Economic Relations at the MEA, stated, “This visit should be seen in the context of Africa as a continent and how India wishes to engage, and is looking at having a stronger partnership with Africa. It’s a reflection of India-Africa growing partnership.” The visit will commence in Algiers on October 13, representing not only the first visit by an Indian President to Algeria but also the first engagement at the level of head of state in 39 years. During her stay, President Murmu plans to engage in bilateral discussions with her Algerian counterpart, address the India-Algeria Economic Forum, and inaugurate an ‘India Corner’ at Hamma Garden in Jardin d’Essai. On October 16, President Murmu will proceed to Mauritania, where she is scheduled to meet with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani and engage with the Indian community, which consists of approximately 150 members. The visit will also be marked by the signing of four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), which include agreements on cultural cooperation and a visa-waiver provision for holders of diplomatic and official passports. The final leg of President Murmu’s trip will take her to Malawi from October 17 to 19. She will participate in discussions with the Malawi leadership, engage with key figures in trade and industry, interact with the Indian diaspora, and visit sites of cultural and historical significance.

The upcoming visit by President Droupadi Murmu to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi is a pivotal moment in India’s foreign relations with African nations. It reflects India’s strategy to deepen diplomatic and economic ties with the African continent, which is home to 54 countries and plays a crucial role in the Global South. This venture is significant as India continues to pursue stronger partnerships in the wake of Africa being recognized within global forums such as the G20. By initiating these discussions and agreements, India aims to enhance collaboration in various sectors, including culture, trade, and other key areas of mutual interest with African countries. This will be the first state visit to Algeria by an Indian President, signifying a potential shift towards more active diplomatic engagement following a long period of dormancy at the head of state level in the region.

In summary, President Droupadi Murmu’s upcoming visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi represents an important step in strengthening India’s ties with Africa. By engaging in bilateral talks, signing crucial agreements, and fostering connections with the Indian diaspora, this visit underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its presence and influence in the African continent. It highlights a new chapter in India-Africa relations, poised to leverage collaborative opportunities across various sectors.

Original Source: indianexpress.com