The relations between India and Africa have long historical roots. For many centuries, the peoples of the two parts of the world have interacted at the levels of economics, politics, and socio-cultural practices. Economically, there have been trade transactions in both natural and human resources. India encouraged and supported Africa to break the bonds of colonialism and apartheid, and joined together with the continent against hegemonic powers during the Cold War under the non-aligned movement.
Fast forward decades later, commerce has empowered India’s modern ties with Africa. On the socio-cultural scene, there has been exchange of ideas, education opportunities, religious beliefs, and medical drugs and equipment over the years.
In security matters, India has also assisted African countries to fight against terrorism through the provision of arms and training of military personnel. India also participates in UN-led peacekeeping missions across Africa. During COVID-19 pandemic, India has also used its economic muscle, medical equipment, and medicine, to assist African countries. The availability of Indian-manufactured drugs has also been essential in the fight against the HIV and AIDS pandemic in Africa. These relations remain beneficial to the peoples of both India and Africa.
We can’t deny the fact that there are signs of increasing diplomatic war between India and China in Africa. India is engaged in expanding mutual cooperation with the voice of African countries articulating in global forums. India and many allied countries are trying to break the Chinese domination in this area. During Corona period, understanding between India and African countries has increased.
India and African countries are speaking together on the issue of democratic reform in global institutions. Both India and Africa have supported increasing the number of permanent and temporary members of the UN Security Council. India is also trying to balance trade in this area. In addition to energy, the possibility of expanding cooperation in the field of infrastructure is being explored.
According to a report, China’s trade was higher than the GDP of 30 African countries last year. Last year, China’s trade in Africa was US $ 200 billion, which is more than the total GDP of the 30 smallest countries there.
India had a trade of about $ 71.65 billion from Africa last year. It accounts for less than half of China’s trade in Africa. India along with other countries is trying to bridge this gap. Companies in India and Russia had signed an MoU aimed at strengthening the transcontinental infrastructure.
Sources said that ever since S Jaishankar became Minister of External Affairs, he has had a special focus on Africa. In April last year, he negotiated with several foreign ministers of Africa and promoted India’s interests.
India’s partnership with Africa rests on the principle of equality, mutual benefit, mutual respect, and solidarity. The model of cooperation with Africa is demand-driven, consultative, participative, and strives to build local capacities. The idea is to liberate Africa’s potential without seeking to constrain it.
The ‘atmanirbhar’ India, in fact, would be in much better position to support its international roles and responsibilities. In the context of African countries also, we can see this sentiment echoed in the Agenda 2063 wherein it was stated that the quest for African unity, inspired by the spirit of pan-Africanism, is motivated by development based on self-reliance and self-determination of African people, with democratic and people-centered governance.
It is just to say that beating China at its own game seems achievable for India. Unlike China, which is actively promoting its model of state-led capitalism and political authoritarianism to African and other developing countries, India can lead by example. Many African countries resemble the multi-ethnic democracy of India. India’s fast-paced economy and large democracy can offer a developing beacon for the rest of the world.