Last Updated on April 7, 2026 7:46 pm by BIZNAMA NEWS
A AKHTER / New Delhi
Unfazed by escalating tensions stemming from the ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict, India is set to host the India–Africa Forum Summit from May 28 to 31 in the national capital, in what is being billed as one of the largest diplomatic gatherings in recent years.
According to official sources, nearly 54 Heads of State and Government from across the African continent are expected to attend the summit in New Delhi, underscoring India’s growing engagement with Africa despite shifting global geopolitical dynamics.
The high-profile summit returns after a gap of nearly a decade. India’s structured outreach to Africa was first launched in 2008 under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, establishing a long-term framework for partnership with African nations. The summits were initially held every three years, gaining steady momentum over time. In 2015, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the engagement expanded significantly, with broader participation from across the continent.
The fourth edition, originally scheduled for 2020, was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by logistical constraints including the unavailability of key leaders and India’s domestic electoral calendar.
The upcoming three-day summit will deliberate on a wide range of strategic issues, including defence cooperation, maritime security, and economic partnerships across sectors such as energy, mining, and agriculture. The discussions are expected to culminate in the adoption of the “Delhi Declaration,” along with key outcome documents outlining future cooperation frameworks.
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar today chaired a Consultative Committee meeting on India and Africa ties in New Delhi. The discussions covered the country’s outreach to African countries, including trade and investment, Lines of Credit and grants, capacity building, especially in education and skilling, defence, and cooperation in regional and multilateral fora. In a social media post, Dr Jaishankar said that the meeting highlighted India’s historic ties and strong people-to-people connection with Africa.