New Delhi, May 2 (SHABD): Angola President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço arrived in India on Friday for a landmark three-day state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between India and Angola. This marks President Lourenço’s first bilateral visit to India and the first by an Angolan head of state in 38 years. The visit also coincides with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The Angolan President is accompanied by a high-level delegation and is scheduled to engage in a series of high-profile meetings during his stay. On Saturday, he will receive a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by official talks with President Droupadi Murmu, who will also host a state banquet in his honour.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold delegation-level discussions with President Lourenço, with both leaders expected to explore new avenues of cooperation. A luncheon hosted by the Prime Minister will further underscore the warmth of India-Angola relations. The visit is expected to culminate in the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements across various sectors, aimed at boosting bilateral cooperation.
Earlier today, President Lourenço also met with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, signaling possible defence and strategic collaborations between the two nations. India and Angola have historically enjoyed warm and friendly relations, with mutual support at various multilateral platforms, including the United Nations. The visit is expected to give a fresh impetus to this enduring partnership.
READ MORE: Earthquake Rocks Afghanistan-Tajikistan Border, Felt Across South Asia
