Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for Africa’s permanent representation in a reformed United Nations Security Council …reports Africa Daily News Desk
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Africa, highlighting expanding trade, investment and development cooperation while calling for greater African representation in global institutions.
Addressing Africa Day 2026 celebrations in New Delhi, Jaishankar said this year’s theme, “Africa: A Land of Rich Culture and Opportunities,” reflected the continent’s growing economic and strategic importance.
Backing reforms of global governance institutions, Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for Africa’s permanent representation in a reformed United Nations Security Council and sought reciprocal support for India’s long-standing bid for a permanent seat.
“Guided by this spirit, India is a strong votary of Africa’s rightful place in a reformed United Nations Security Council. We similarly seek your support to ensure India’s permanent seat on the UN Security Council,” he said.
The minister said India has emerged as one of Africa’s largest trade and investment partners, with bilateral trade reaching USD 93 billion last year and cumulative Indian investments exceeding USD 80 billion.
“India is proud to be one of Africa’s largest trade and investment partners. Our bilateral trade stood at US dollars 93 billion last year. Similarly, India has emerged as one of the top investors in Africa with cumulative investments exceeding US dollars 80 billion,” he said.
Jaishankar noted that Indian investments span key sectors including telecommunications, energy, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, agriculture and digital services.
He also underlined India’s development partnership with African nations, describing it as inclusive, demand-driven and focused on strengthening local capacities.
According to Jaishankar, India has extended 190 Lines of Credit worth more than USD 10 billion for projects across over 40 African countries. More than 220 projects valued at USD 4.5 billion have already been completed, with several others under implementation.
He added that since 2015, India has provided USD 700 million in grant assistance for infrastructure projects, medical aid, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief across the continent.
Highlighting humanitarian initiatives, Jaishankar said India was particularly proud of its programme to provide artificial limbs, especially in conflict-affected regions.
The minister also recalled the significance of Africa Day, observed annually to commemorate the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, now known as the African Union, saying it symbolises the continent’s unity and collective aspirations.
