President Droupadi Murmu completed a historic four-day state visit to Angola from November 8 to 11, 2025, marking the first such trip by an Indian head of state. During her address to the Angolan National Assembly, she called for deeper economic ties in digital technology, defence, agriculture, and food processing. This visit coincides with Angola’s 50th independence anniversary and the 40th year of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Murmu highlighted shared anti-colonial struggles and democratic values, noting India as the world’s largest democracy and Angola as one of Africa’s vibrant ones. She praised Angola’s 39% women representation in Parliament as a model for gender equality. The President urged parliamentary exchanges to boost mutual understanding and supported Angola’s African Union chairmanship.
In meetings with Angolan President João Lourenço, discussions covered energy, infrastructure, health, and defence cooperation. India reaffirmed its role as a reliable partner in Angola’s development through the India-Africa Forum Summit. Key outcomes included an Air Service Agreement for direct flights to enhance business and people-to-people ties.
Two MoUs were signed: one on sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and marine resources sharing best practices; another allowing diplomatic families to work gainfully. These build on India’s supplies of pharmaceuticals, food, petroleum, automobiles, and machinery to Angola.
Bilateral trade reached nearly $5 billion, with oil comprising 90% as India is Angola’s second-largest oil partner after China. Opportunities in renewable energy and technology aim to diversify ties amid global uncertainties affecting the Global South. Murmu’s visit strengthens India’s Africa outreach, countering influences and promoting sustainable growth.
The leaders agreed to involve the private sector more in advancing relations. This partnership fosters peace, development, and mutual prosperity in emerging sectors.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
- What was the main purpose of President Murmu’s visit to Angola?
The visit aimed to deepen bilateral ties during Angola’s 50th independence anniversary and the 40th year of diplomacy. President Murmu held talks with President Lourenço on energy, infrastructure, defence, health, and agriculture, signing MoUs to boost trade and cooperation. - In which sectors did President Murmu urge stronger India-Angola cooperation?
She emphasized digital technology, defence, agriculture, food processing, energy, and health. Murmu highlighted opportunities to expand economic relations, involving the private sector for sustainable growth and mutual prosperity amid Global South challenges. - What agreements were signed during the visit?
Two MoUs covered sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, marine resources, and consular cooperation for diplomatic families’ employment. An Air Service Agreement was also concluded to enable direct flights, enhancing business and people-to-people ties between India and Angola. - What is the current status of India-Angola bilateral trade?
Trade totals nearly $5 billion, with oil at 90% as India is Angola’s second-largest partner after China. India supplies pharmaceuticals, food, petroleum, automobiles, and machinery, with plans to diversify into tech, defence, and agriculture for balanced growth.