New Delhi, May 21: India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, addressed the Africa Day 2026 memorial conference at the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analysis. He emphasized that the destinies of India and Africa are closely intertwined.
The event featured notable attendees, including the Director General of the Manohar Parrikar Institute, Ambassador Sujan R. Chinoy, and the Dean of the African and Arab Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador Mohammad Maliki, who represents the African continent.
Kirti Vardhan Singh expressed his joy in celebrating Africa Day at the institute, stating, “Africa Day honors the spirit of freedom, unity, strength, and determination of the African people. It is an opportunity to respect all that makes Africa a great and rapidly advancing continent. On this special day, I extend heartfelt wishes from the Government of India and its people as we celebrate the establishment of the African Union, reflecting on the journey of struggle, resilience, and change that is deeply connected to India’s own history.”
He further noted, “India and Africa share a legacy of resistance against colonialism and apartheid, united today by hopes for peace, prosperity, and inclusive development. It is particularly fitting that this conference is hosted by the Manohar Parrikar Institute, named after one of India’s most visionary leaders. This esteemed institution has always served as a vital platform to strengthen India-Africa friendship and cooperation. The theme of today’s conference, ‘Towards a Common Future: Africa-India Partnership,’ is both timely and essential.”
The Minister highlighted that in an increasingly interconnected world, the fates of India and Africa are closely linked. “The progress of humanity in India cannot be separated from the progress of our brothers and sisters in Africa. We meet at a crucial time, as we are set to host the fourth India-Africa Forum Summit from May 28 to 31, 2026.”
However, it is important to note that the summit has been postponed due to an outbreak of the Ebola virus.
Kirti Vardhan Singh concluded, “As Foreign Minister Dr. Jaishankar revealed last month, the theme of IAFS4 is ‘IA Spirit: Innovation, Resilience, and Inclusive Transformation for India-Africa Strategic Partnership.’ Together, India and Africa represent over a third of humanity. In times of growing geopolitical divides and global uncertainties, the partnership between India and Africa is essential for peace, fairness, sustainability, and inclusive growth.”
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