Jaishankar: Africa Is India's Priority In Global Order

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that Africa is India's partner and priority, and the continent must be given its due place in the global order. He made this statement at an event marking Africa Day 2026 in New Delhi.

Jaishankar said that India continues to be in close contact with the African Union and looks forward to reconvening the deferred India Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-4). The summit was postponed earlier this year due to the outbreak of the Ebola virus.

The minister announced that India has pledged to give a package of $10 million of in-kind medical equipment and support to Africa CDC and partner countries at risk. He emphasized the importance of the India-Africa partnership, saying that the hearts of Indians and Africans 'beat in rhythm'.

Jaishankar highlighted that human resource development remains at the heart of engagement with Africa. He also underlined that the India-Africa partnership has proven its strength and resilience during crises, such as the Covid pandemic and natural disasters.

The minister concluded by reiterating that Africa is India's partner and priority, and that it is India's firm conviction that a multipolar world order or reformed multilateralism can only happen when Africa is given its due place.

Africa Day commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963. Jaishankar's statement reflects India's commitment to strengthening its relationship with Africa and promoting the continent's interests in the global order.

The India-Africa partnership has been growing in recent years, with both sides cooperating on various issues such as trade, investment, and security. India has also been providing development assistance to Africa, including in the areas of healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Jaishankar's emphasis on Africa's importance in the global order is significant, as it reflects India's recognition of the continent's growing economic and political influence. As the world becomes increasingly multipolar, India's partnership with Africa is likely to play a crucial role in shaping the global order.

In the coming years, India and Africa are expected to deepen their cooperation on various issues, including trade, investment, and security. The India Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-4) is expected to be reconvened soon, which will provide an opportunity for both sides to discuss ways to strengthen their partnership and promote mutual interests.

Overall, Jaishankar's statement on Africa Day 2026 reflects India's commitment to promoting the continent's interests in the global order and strengthening its partnership with Africa. This partnership is likely to play a crucial role in shaping the global order in the coming years.

The partnership between India and Africa is based on mutual respect, trust, and cooperation. Both sides have been working together to promote economic development, social justice, and human rights. The partnership has also been driven by a shared commitment to promoting South-South cooperation and addressing global challenges such as climate change and pandemics.

In conclusion, Jaishankar's statement on Africa Day 2026 emphasizes the importance of the India-Africa partnership in the global order. The partnership is based on mutual respect, trust, and cooperation, and is driven by a shared commitment to promoting economic development, social justice, and human rights. As the world becomes increasingly multipolar, the India-Africa partnership is likely to play a crucial role in shaping the global order.