NEW DELHI, May 4 (ANI): In a major boost to bilateral ties and global climate cooperation, Angola officially joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) during President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenço’s state visit to India, becoming the 123rd member of the initiative.
During a series of high-level engagements between India and Angola, several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged to strengthen cooperation across a wide spectrum of sectors. These include Ayurveda and traditional systems of medicine, agriculture, and cultural collaboration for the 2025–2029 period.
One of the key announcements of the visit was India’s approval of a $200 million defence line of credit to Angola, aimed at facilitating the modernization of its armed forces. The agreement includes the procurement of defence equipment from Indian companies, with discussions already underway between Angola and both public and private sector manufacturers.
“This visit has generated considerable momentum in the area of defence,” said Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations), during a media briefing. “There is a strong synergy between our countries. Angola operates a significant inventory of Soviet-era defence platforms, and India has the expertise to help maintain, overhaul, and upgrade these systems. Expert-level engagements will follow to shape the roadmap for this cooperation.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Lourenço led delegation-level talks, marking the first visit by an Angolan head of state to India in 38 years. PM Modi described the visit as a historic milestone in India-Angola relations, underscoring the enduring bond between the two nations.
“This year, as we mark 40 years of formal diplomatic ties, we also honor our deeper historical relationship. India stood by Angola during its fight for independence, guided by faith and friendship,” PM Modi stated.
He reiterated India’s commitment to deepening cooperation across sectors, including energy, healthcare, fertilizer, critical minerals, and diamond processing. “India is one of the largest buyers of Angola’s oil and gas. We have decided to expand this energy partnership and collaborate more deeply in defence and training of Angola’s forces,” he said.
Highlighting the growing cultural affinity between the two nations, PM Modi pointed to the popularity of Yoga and Bollywood in Angola and announced a Youth Exchange Programme to strengthen people-to-people ties.
India also welcomed Angola’s entry into the International Solar Alliance, a coalition aimed at advancing solar energy deployment globally. “We are delighted that Angola has joined the ISA. This will bolster our shared efforts in promoting sustainable energy,” said PM Modi.
Additionally, India invited Angola to participate in other key global initiatives led by India, including the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Big Cat Alliance, and the Global Biofuels Alliance.
Addressing global security issues, PM Modi expressed his appreciation to President Lourenço for Angola’s condolences following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. “We are committed to taking firm action against terrorism and those who support it. Angola’s solidarity in this fight is deeply appreciated,” he stated.
PM Modi also extended best wishes to Angola as it assumes the chairmanship of the African Union. “India and Angola are partners in progress. Together, we amplify the voice of the Global South. Angola’s leadership at the African Union will further strengthen this unity,” he concluded.
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