S. Jaishankar Outlines India's Defense and Maritime Strategy for Africa

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the critical nature of peace and security in Africa during an Africa Day event in New Delhi. He detailed the commitment of the Indian government to the continent through capacity-building initiatives, defense training, and maritime cooperation. These efforts are guided by Vision MAHASAGAR, which aims to secure sea lanes, enhance maritime domain awareness, and coordinate anti-piracy responses.

Jaishankar noted that Indian military training teams are currently operational in Namibia, Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, and Mozambique. He also highlighted India's active participation in multilateral exercises, specifically AFINDEX 2023 and AIKEYME 2025.

Regarding diplomatic engagement, the minister affirmed India's intention to reconvene the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit. The summit had been previously postponed due to an Ebola outbreak, and Jaishankar stated that India remains in close contact with the African Union to determine a mutually convenient date for the event.