India-Africa ties enter new strategic phase: 'South–South cooperation' and multi-sector partnership in focus

A conference titled 'India-Africa partnership in a changing global order' was held in the national capital on Monday, with the speakers highlighting that the relations of the two regions were entering into a more strategic phase.Addressing the gathering, Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the ministry of external affairs, said, “The turbulent times we are living in, accompanied by disruption of supply chains, asks for south-south cooperation in energy transition and climate action.” He emphasised Africa’s importance in India’s economic diplomacy and reiterated that the partnership reflects the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.Speakers at the conference noted that intensifying global competition and Africa’s own integration efforts, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area, are transforming engagement frameworks. India–Africa trade has already crossed $100 billion in 2024–25 and both sides are aiming to double it to $200 billion by 2030, underlining the need for a clearer and more cohesive policy roadmap. South Africa’s high commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, stressed cooperation in agricultural innovation, food security, skills and capacity building as priorities for the next India-Africa Forum Summit. Ambassador Anil Wadhawa said collaboration in technology, ports and infrastructure is about “co-architecting futures in a changing global order.”Delegates also pointed to opportunities in renewable energy, critical minerals and digitisation, while calling for stronger institutional mechanisms and regular summit meetings. Overall, participants concluded that India–Africa ties have evolved into a multidimensional partnership but still require sustained policy attention to realise their full potential.The conference was organised by the Chintan Research Foundation in collaboration with the USANAS Foundation, and brought together diplomats, policymakers and scholars alike to assess the trajectory of bilateral ties. Discussions highlighted how historical solidarity rooted in anti-colonial struggles and the Bandung Conference legacy is now intersecting with present-day developmental and strategic priorities.