President Droupadi Murmu Undertakes Historic State Visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi

President Droupadi Murmu is set to visit Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from October 13-19. This trip underscores India's strengthening ties with Africa, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). It marks the first time an Indian president will visit these three African nations. The visit follows the African Union's inclusion in the G20 under India's presidency last year.

The visit begins in Algeria, the largest African country. President Murmu will be there from October 13-15 at the invitation of Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. This visit coincides with President Tebboune's second term inauguration. India and Algeria share a history of mutual support during their struggles for independence.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

In Algiers, Murmu will attend an Indian community reception on October 13. She will also pay homage at Maqam Echahid, a memorial for martyrs of Algeria's independence war. On October 14, she will address the Algeria-India Economic Forum and visit Sidi Abdellah Scientific and Technological Pole university, where she will receive an honorary doctorate.

During her stay in Algeria, President Murmu will engage in bilateral discussions with her counterpart. Several Algerian dignitaries are expected to meet her, including leaders from both houses of the Algerian Parliament. She will also inaugurate the India Corner at Hamma Garden in Jardin d'essai.

Engagement with Mauritania

The next stop is Mauritania, currently chairing the African Union. The timing is crucial for India to deepen ties with Mauritania, said Dammu Ravi from MEA. Four MoUs covering culture, foreign office institutions, consultations, and visa waivers for diplomatic passports will be signed during this visit.

President Murmu will meet Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani. The Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Mauritania are also expected to call on her. India opened its mission in Nouakchott in June 2021, which has bolstered bilateral relations.

Visit to Malawi

On October 17, President Murmu will arrive in Malawi at the invitation of President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera. During her three-day stay, she will hold talks with Malawi's leadership and interact with trade leaders and the Indian diaspora. Her visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Malawi.

Three MoUs focusing on youth affairs and cultural exchange are expected to be signed during her visit to Malawi. This trip aims to reaffirm India's commitment to strengthening its friendly relations with Malawi.

India-Africa Partnership

This three-nation tour highlights India's intent to deepen its partnership with Africa. Africa comprises 54 countries and is central to the Global South. The visit reflects India's growing engagement with Africa as a continent.

Regarding Algeria's potential BRICS membership, Secretary ER mentioned that expansion is a consensus-based process among member countries. Although Algeria was not part of the first expansion wave, it remains a candidate for future inclusion.

The Kazan Summit on October 22 will address BRICS expansion decisions. The Prime Minister will represent India at this summit, where significant decisions are anticipated regarding new memberships within BRICS.