India-Algeria relations receive a boost with President Murmu's historic visit
- In Reports
- 12:51 PM, Oct 14, 2024
- Myind Staff
In a significant move to strengthen ties between the two countries, Indian President Droupadi Murmu revisited the robust and historical political ties between Algeria and India. This development came during her visit to Algeria on Sunday.
In her speech at the Algiers Indian Community Reception, she remarked that despite their geographical separation, the two countries have maintained a close bond since Algeria gained independence. "When Algeria became independent in 1962, India was there to support Algeria and we immediately established political relations. Since then, political relations have grown manifold. My visit has special significance in this context. Despite the geographical distance, we have always had a close bond of friendship," she stated during her speech. "Our political leaders leaders have always had good relations with Algerian leaders,” she added.
On Sunday, President Murmu landed in Algeria for the first stop of her three-nation tour. A cordial ceremonial welcome was extended to her. This was the first time an Indian president landed in Algeria. As a special gesture, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria greeted the President at the airport. There were other cabinet members in attendance as well.
President Murmu praised the Indian community for its contribution to India's development during her speech. "With the collective efforts of 1.4 billion Indians, we embark on a new journey of hope and aspirations. While India is moving ahead at a fast and rapid pace, the goodwill of the Indian community both in Alegria and abroad cannot be over-emphasised," said Murmu.
"Today, India is playing an important role in global development. With a consistent annual growth of 8 per cent, India is one of the fastest-growing major economies. There has also been a significant reduction in the number of people living below the poverty line. It is a matter of pride that our country has become the fifth-largest economy in the world," the President concluded.
In her speech to the Indian community, Indian Ambassador to Algeria Swati Kulkarni emphasised the two nations' longstanding relationship. "It is a very special day in India-Algeria relations. Though geographically distant, India and Algeria are historically close. India supported the Algerian liberation movement against colonialism since its inception. Over the years, mutual trust and shared interests have strengthened this beautiful partnership," she stated.
Additionally, she emphasised the importance of President Murmu's visit, stating, "Today, madam, your visit will reiterate our commitment to a vibrant present and a better tomorrow. Much of what our countries have achieved so far would not have been possible without the contributions made by the Indian community and by our Algerian counterparts. Though small in number, our community members are dynamic, diligent and law-abiding."
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, President Murmu is travelling to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi as part of a three-nation African tour from October 13 to October 19. She left for her official three-nation tour earlier on Sunday. "Deepening India-Africa special ties. President Droupadi Murmu emplanes for a 3 country State visit to Algeria, Mauritania and Malawi," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X.
In a post shared on X, the Rashtrapati Bhavan account said, "President Droupadi Murmu departs for her State visits to Algeria, Mauritania and Malawi. This will be the first-ever visit by an Indian Head of State to these nations." In addition, the president will engage with the Indian diaspora and have bilateral meetings with other leaders. President Murmu will pay her respects at the Maqam Echahid monument, which was erected in memory of the Algerian War of Independence victims, on Monday, October 14.
After the ceremony, she will meet with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune one-on-one. There will also be delegation-level discussions and a banquet held in her honour. In addition, she will speak at the Algeria-India Economic Forum that same day. Along with launching the India Corner at Hamma Garden in Jardin d'Essai, President Murmu will also give a speech at the Sidi Abdellah Science and Technology Pole University. She will plant an Indian sapling as part of the celebration to commemorate the opening of the India Centre at the Hamma Botanical Garden.
On October 16, President Murmu will land in Mauritania for the second stop on her tour. Since Mauritania gained its independence in 1960, no Indian leader of her stature has visited the country before. After a meeting with Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, she will sign four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) pertaining to cultural cooperation, foreign office consultations, cooperation among foreign office institutions, and visa waivers for holders of official and diplomatic passports. She will also speak to Mauritania's Indian community.
President Lazarus Chakwera has invited President Murmu to visit Malawi on October 17. There, she will meet with the Indian diaspora, attend a business event, and have an exclusive meeting with the president of Malawi. Malawi and India will sign three Memorandums of Understanding on cultural exchange, sports, and youth affairs. On October 19, President Murmu will wrap up her tour and leave Malawi for India.
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