New Delhi: Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco began a landmark state visit to India in early May, marking the first such visit in 38 years. The four-day trip, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Angola, underscored both nations’ commitment to deepening ties across energy, defence, development, and cultural sectors.

President Lourenco was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who later hosted him for bilateral talks at Hyderabad House. “This visit is very important for Angola. It is a step forward in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our countries,” Lourenco said.

President Lourenco, accompanied by a high-level delegation, expressed a strong interest in attracting Indian investment. He identified agriculture, education, health, IT, trade, and energy as priority areas for cooperation, stressing the importance of achieving “concrete, practical outcomes.”

The leaders also reaffirmed their united stance against terrorism, with Mr Modi thanking Angola for its support following the Pahalgam attack. “India is committed to taking firm action against terrorism, and we value Angola’s solidarity,” he said.

Celebrating 40 years of diplomatic ties

During the high-level meeting, PM Modi congratulated Angola on assuming the chairmanship of the African Union and recalled India’s historic support for Angola’s liberation. “Though we are celebrating 40 years of formal relations, our connection dates back to Angola’s freedom struggle, which India supported wholeheartedly,” he said. He also praised the AU’s inclusion in the G20 under India’s presidency as a major step for the Global South.

He congratulated Angola for assuming the chairmanship of the African Union and highlighted India’s role in securing permanent AU membership in the G20 during its presidency. “India and Africa have historically raised a united voice against colonialism, and today we continue to champion the aspirations of the Global South,” he said.