External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday highlighted the growing importance of the India-Africa partnership at a time when the world is facing multiple geopolitical and economic challenges. Speaking in New Delhi at the unveiling of the logo, theme and website for the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit-IV, he said the relationship between the two regions would stand as a message of stability and reliability in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

His remarks come against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts in different parts of the world, including tensions in West Asia that have continued for over 50 days and are affecting global dynamics. In this context, Jaishankar stressed that partnerships rooted in trust and shared goals are more important than ever.

The minister described the India-Africa relationship as one that goes beyond development cooperation. He said, "Together, India and Africa are not just development partners, but also 'partners in shaping a better world'." This reflects a broader vision where both sides contribute to global progress and stability.

The newly unveiled summit logo features a lion, symbolising strength and leadership, placed over interlocked maps of India and Africa. The theme for the summit is ‘Enduring Partnership Shared Vision’, which reflects the long-standing ties and shared aspirations between the two regions. The date of the summit was also revealed during the event, which will be attended by ambassadors and diplomats from several African countries.

Jaishankar said the upcoming summit offers a valuable opportunity to deepen engagement between India and Africa. He noted that it will help shape the next phase of the partnership, making it more ambitious, inclusive and future-oriented. Emphasising the significance of the moment, he said, "As the world navigates through complex geopolitical and geoeconomic challenges, our partnership assumes particular significance."

Highlighting the role of the partnership in the current global context, he added, "It will be a message of stability in a turbulent world, of reliability in an uncertain one, and of solidarity in difficult times." These remarks underline India’s intention to position its engagement with Africa as a dependable and constructive force globally.

The minister also pointed out that Africa holds a central place in India’s foreign policy. He said India’s approach is based on equality, mutual respect and shared progress. Over the past few years, India has significantly expanded its diplomatic presence in Africa by opening 17 new missions, bringing the total number of Indian missions on the continent to 46. This expansion reflects a stronger commitment to building closer ties.

Jaishankar spoke about the deep historical and cultural connections between India and Africa. He said the relationship is rooted in long-standing civilisational linkages that have developed through centuries of cultural exchange and human interaction. These bonds were further strengthened during the period of colonial rule, when India stood in support of African nations in their struggle for independence.

He added that India’s own freedom movement is closely linked with Africa, highlighting a shared history of resistance and resilience. "Our shared history of struggle, solidarity, resilience and aspirations continues to shape our partnership," he said, pointing to the enduring nature of the relationship.

Looking ahead, Jaishankar noted that India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 aligns closely with Africa’s Agenda 2063. Both frameworks aim to achieve sustainable growth, inclusive development and long-term prosperity. He said these shared goals create a strong foundation for deeper collaboration in the coming years.

The minister also highlighted the steady expansion of engagement across key areas. He mentioned that there have been numerous high-level political exchanges between India and African nations. India has consistently supported Africa’s demand for a greater role in global decision-making processes.

A major step in this direction was the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 during India’s presidency in 2023. Jaishankar described this as a significant achievement that reflects India’s commitment to amplifying the voice of the Global South. "It reflected our firm belief that the voices of the Global South must shape global governance in times to come," he said.

Development cooperation and capacity building remain at the core of India-Africa ties. Jaishankar emphasised that India has focused on initiatives that support growth and skill development across African nations. In addition to this, defence, security and maritime cooperation have become important aspects of the partnership.

He noted that these efforts are guided by the vision of MAHASAGAR, which aims to ensure stability in the Indian Ocean Region and promote safer sea routes. This aspect of cooperation is particularly important given the strategic significance of maritime security in today’s global landscape.

Concluding his remarks, Jaishankar reiterated that the India-Africa partnership is entering a new phase. With shared history, aligned goals and expanding cooperation, both sides are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to global stability and development.