| PYQ Relevance: Q) “If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. (UPSC CSE 2021) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have focused on ‘India’s influence in Africa (2021), and anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were led by the new elite of Western-educated Africans (in 2016).
The Prime Minister’s visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana from November 16-21, 2024, was carefully planned to achieve multiple goals. This trip showcased India’s efforts in diplomacy across Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, focusing on important discussions about bilateral, regional, and global issues. While the main reason for the visit was to attend the G-20 summit in Brazil, dedicating time to Nigeria and Guyana added more value to this journey. The trip reflects India’s key foreign policy priorities.
Today’s editorial highlights the what are the outcomes of the recent visits of the PM of India to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana provides valuable insights into India’s prevailing foreign policy priorities.
Outcomes of the recent visit of the Indian PM to Nigeria in West Africa
- Significance of the Visit: This was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, underscoring the importance of strengthening bilateral ties. The visit was at the invitation of the Nigerian President, emphasizing a shared belief in democracy and pluralism.
- Bilateral Cooperation: Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in sectors such as trade, investment, education, energy, health, and culture.
- New areas for collaboration included agriculture, urban transportation, renewable energy, and digital transformation.
- Recognition and Awards: The Nigerian government conferred a top national award on the Indian leader for contributions to bilateral relations, signalling a strong appreciation for India’s expanding influence in Africa.
- Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism and extremism together. However, only three memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed, likely due to bureaucratic delays.
Recently visit of PM to Brazil for the G20 summit:
- Summit Overview: Hosted in Rio de Janeiro on November 18-19, the G-20 Summit aimed to incorporate perspectives of the Global South into its decision-making processes. Key priorities included social inclusion, sustainable development, and reforming global governance institutions.
- Outcomes: The summit led to the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty and the adoption of a roadmap for more effective multilateral development banks. However, progress on climate finance remained limited.
- Bilateral Engagements: The Indian delegation engaged with several world leaders during the summit, including discussions with U.S. and European leaders, as well as a meeting with the Chinese Foreign Minister to advance bilateral relations.
Last visit of PM to Guyana: The Wrap-Up
- Historical Significance: The visit to Guyana marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister since 1968, underscoring India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Caribbean nations, particularly given that 40% of Guyana’s population is of Indian origin.
- Cooperation Agreements: Ten MoUs were signed across various sectors, including energy, defence, urban development, digital collaboration, education, and food security, reflecting a robust bilateral cooperation program.
- India-CARICOM Summit: During the visit, the Indian leader co-chaired the second India-CARICOM Summit in Georgetown, proposing seven pillars for enhanced cooperation that align with regional priorities.
Importance of Carrabian for India
- Strategic Trade Gateway: The Caribbean serves as a crucial gateway to North and South American markets, making it an important trade partner for India.
- Strengthening ties with CARICOM nations can facilitate access to these markets, enhancing India’s economic outreach and trade opportunities in the region.
- Energy Security and Resource Collaboration: The Caribbean, particularly nations like Guyana, is rich in hydrocarbons and other natural resources.
- India’s engagement in the region aims to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on traditional suppliers.
- Cultural and Historical Ties: The Caribbean has a significant Indian diaspora, providing a strong foundation for cultural exchange and bilateral relations.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Regional Partnerships: Build on existing MoUs by establishing follow-up mechanisms to ensure timely implementation of agreements across sectors like energy, education, and digital transformation. Enhance India’s role in regional forums like CARICOM and AU to solidify partnerships.
- Leverage Cultural and Economic Ties: Utilize India’s cultural connections, especially in Guyana and Nigeria, to foster people-to-people links while expanding trade and investment in renewable energy, agriculture, and technology to deepen economic cooperation.
