New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday addressed the National Assembly of Angola, marking a historic moment in India-Angola relations as the southern African nation celebrates the 50th anniversary of its independence.
Welcoming her to the Assembly, Carolina Cerqueira, President of Angolan National Assembly, said President Murmu’s visit represents “a new milestone” in the two countries’ partnership. She commended India’s development journey as “an inspiration for Angola” and acknowledged India’s continued support and engagement with Africa.
In her remarks to Angolan lawmakers, President Murmu emphasised that India and Angola are united by shared experiences of anti-colonial struggles and a commitment to democratic values. “While India is the world’s largest democracy, Angola is one of Africa’s most vibrant democracies,” she noted, urging greater “parliamentary exchanges between the two sides to promote mutual understanding”.
The President praised Angola for its strong representation of women in parliament, with more than 39% of its members being women. Describing this as “an inspiring example of inclusive governance,” she said India too is taking steps to strengthen women’s participation through recent legislative reforms.
Highlighting bilateral cooperation, President Murmu said economic and trade relations are central to the partnership. She pointed to sustained collaboration in the energy sector and called for expanding engagement into “emerging areas such as digital technology, defence, agriculture and food processing”.
Applauding Angola’s progress in infrastructure, governance, and development, the President said the country is “emerging as a key participant in Africa’s growth story.” She also lauded its leadership role as Chair of the African Union.
Reflecting on global challenges, President Murmu observed that nations of the Global South are particularly affected by “a period of conflicts and uncertainties.” She reaffirmed India’s “steadfast commitment to fostering peace and development in Africa” and encouraged Angolan parliamentarians to “join hands as partners to realise the full potential of the India-Angola partnership.”
Earlier in the day, President Murmu paid homage at the memorial of Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto, Angola’s founding President and a key figure in its independence movement. She also visited the Fortaleza de São Miguel, a 16th-century fortress that now serves as the Museum of the Armed Forces, chronicling Angola’s colonial and liberation history.
The President is scheduled to meet members of the Indian community in Luanda later in the evening.