PM Modi meets Angolan President Lourenco at Hyderabad House

New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco to India on Saturday, marking the first visit in 38 years. This visit highlights a renewed commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across various sectors. It also celebrates 40 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

During a joint press conference, PM Modi spoke about the historic solidarity between India and Angola, noting the long-standing relationship, especially India’s support for Angola’s fight for freedom. He highlighted that the two countries are working together in areas like energy, defense, digital infrastructure, healthcare, and cultural exchange.

PM Modi mentioned that India is one of the largest buyers of oil and gas from Angola and that the energy partnership would be further expanded. He also announced a USD 200 million defense credit line for Angola to modernize its armed forces and emphasized sharing expertise in digital public infrastructure, space technology, and capacity building.

The two leaders also discussed strengthening healthcare ties, as well as collaborating in diamond processing, fertilizers, and critical minerals. PM Modi noted the growing popularity of yoga and Bollywood in Angola, which reflects the strength of cultural connections. To deepen people-to-people relations, the two nations decided to launch a youth exchange program.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi met President Lourenco at Hyderabad House for bilateral discussions, joined by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

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On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Angola’s President, Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco, at Hyderabad House for bilateral talks. With External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, PM Modi discussed strengthening India-Angola relations. Jaishankar had previously met Lourenco during his State Visit, emphasizing how these talks would enhance India-Africa cooperation. Lourenco received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and paid respects at Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial.