New Delhi, Feb 26: India’s engagement with Africa has been driven by a long-term commitment to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships, unlike exploitative models of cooperation, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated on Wednesday. His remarks come as China continues its efforts to expand influence across the continent.
Speaking at the Japan-India-Africa Business Forum, Jaishankar emphasized that India and Japan, with their complementary strengths, are well-placed to support Africa’s development in an inclusive and sustainable manner.
"India's approach to Africa has always been rooted in capacity-building, skill development, and technology transfer, ensuring that African nations not only receive investments but also develop self-sustaining growth ecosystems," he said.
India currently stands as Africa’s fourth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching nearly USD 100 billion, a figure that continues to rise. The country has also extended over USD 12 billion in concessional credit, funding more than 200 infrastructure projects across Africa in critical sectors such as railways, power generation, agriculture, and water supply.
Jaishankar underscored the significant impact of India's development projects in Africa, spanning power plants, transmission lines, technology parks, cement and textile factories, and railway infrastructure. These initiatives, he noted, have played a crucial role in job creation and improving livelihoods on the continent.
Highlighting India’s unique position, Jaishankar stated that the country serves as a natural bridge for African markets—both geographically and within global industrial value chains.
“With India's rapid economic growth, it provides an ideal hub for Japanese businesses looking to expand into Africa and the Middle East,” he said. “Japanese investments, India's robust industrial base and digital capabilities, and Africa’s talent and consumer potential can collectively generate substantial benefits for all stakeholders.”
Jaishankar also stressed the need for strengthening resilient supply chains for Africa, particularly in emerging and critical sectors. He reiterated that Africa’s growth and prosperity would not only uplift its people but also contribute to global stability and economic progress.
“India and Japan, with their combined strengths, are well-positioned to support Africa’s development in a sustainable and inclusive manner,” he concluded.
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