‘Indian ties with Africa signal stability in a turbulent world’, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the India-Africa relationship as a source of stability amid global turbulence.
• The fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-IV) is scheduled for May 28-31, with the theme “Enduring partnership — shared vision”.
• India is seeking stable alternative suppliers in Africa for essential items like petroleum, natural gas, and fertilizers.
• India has expanded its diplomatic presence in Africa, with 46 missions now covering every region of the continent.

Detailed Insights:

• India's ties with Africa are historically rooted in the shared struggle against colonialism, emphasizing development partnership and capacity building.
• The IAFS-IV aims to strengthen institutions and empower people amidst complex geopolitical and geoeconomic challenges.
• Disruptions in supplies from the Gulf region have led India to explore alternative suppliers in Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Morocco.
• The three million-strong Indian diaspora in Africa serves as a "living bridge", fostering people-centric cooperation.
• India's overseas development support prioritizes Africa outside the South Asian neighborhood, focusing on capacity-building programs.
• Institutions like IIT Zanzibar, National Forensic Science University in Uganda, and Entrepreneurship Development Centre in Rwanda exemplify people-centric cooperation.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Capacity Building: The process of strengthening the abilities of individuals and organizations to perform functions effectively.
• Geopolitical Challenges: Issues arising from the combination of political and geographical factors that impact international relations.
• Overseas Development Assistance: Aid given by governments to support economic and social development in developing countries.