Indian Prime Minister Modi Announces a $200 Million Investment for the Modernization of Angola's Military Forces
Step into the vibrant atmoshphere of Delhi as Prime Minister Narendra Modi sets the stage for a new chapter in India-Angola relations. The charismatic leader, after engaging in extensive talks with Angolan President João Manuel Goncalves Lourenço, has announced a staggering USD 200 million defence credit line to modernize Angola's military forces.
This monumental decision is not just a financial boost, but a testament to the sustained bond between our nations. The defence line of credit (LOC) is specifically designed to help Angola upgrade its aged Soviet-era weaponry, primarily focusing on the maintenance and modernization of their Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets. The LOC will serve as a catalyst for the procurement of defense platforms, sparing parts, and more.
Delving deeper into the roots of this prosperous alliance, India and Angola have embarked on a collaborative journey that spans beyond the battlefield. Together, they aim to bolster their partnership across sectors such as digital public infrastructure, space technology, healthcare, diamond processing, fertiliser, and critical minerals.
In the realm of digital governance, India will share its expertise in cybersecurity, ensuring a safer and more efficient digital environment for Angola. With the use of space technology, joint projects in satellite development and space applications are on the horizon, promising a future brimming with technological advancements.
A novel Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Ayurveda and traditional medicine cooperation will be established, further strengthening our cultural ties. Agriculture and culture will also be embraced, as the two countries sign pacts for agricultural collaboration and a cultural exchange program (2025-29). As the energy sector continues to thrive, Angola remains India’s second-largest African oil/LNG supplier, with discussions underway to expand these energy partnerships.
A noteworthy development during the visit saw Angola joining the International Solar Alliance, marking its 123rd member. This strategic shift emphasizes the emphasis on diversified collaboration, extending beyond defense, and focusing on technology-driven sectors and sustainable development.
PM Modi asserted, "We are committed to taking firm and decisive action against terrorists and those who support them." Highlighting the importance of the India-African Union partnership, he declared, "We are partners in progress, We are pillars of the Global South." President Lourenço's four-day trip to Delhi signifies a monumental step in advancing the India-Angola relationship and bolstering the India-Africa partnership as a whole.
(This story has not been edited and is published from a syndicated feed.)
[1] https://www.aninews.in/news/world/rest-of-the-world/india-angola-sign-6-agreements-modi-joao-lourenco-hold-wide-ranging-talks20250504150142/[2] https://www.financialexpress.com/economy/india-angola-sign-agreements-on-space-cooperation-digital-public-infrastructure/2464248/[3] https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/angerola-s-president-joao-lourenco-arrives-on-four-day-state-visit-to-india/article64701723.ece[4] https://www.anescap.org/en/news/2021/09/india-angola-agreed-on-production-and-assembly-of-ffm-radars[5] https://www.indiandefencereview.com/news/india-angola-ink-6-comex-agreements-225026/
- Despite the focus on modernizing Angola's defense forces, the Indo-Angolan partnership extends beyond war-and-conflicts, encompassing sectors like digital public infrastructure, space technology, healthcare, diamond processing, and agriculture.
- In the digital realm, Angola will benefit from India's expertise in cybersecurity, with the aim of creating a more secure and efficient digital environment.
- Joint projects in satellite development and space applications are anticipated, signifying a promising future of technological advancements for Angola.
- The cooperation on Ayurveda and traditional medicine, forthcoming agricultural collaborations, and a cultural exchange program (2025-29) will further strengthen the cultural ties between India and Angola.
