New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the Africa Day celebrations in New Delhi, highlighting the deep historical, cultural and ideological ties between India and the African continent. He said the relationship has been shaped by centuries of interaction and shared values.
Delighted to join African Heads of Missions and diplomatic community in celebrating Africa Day 2026 in New Delhi today.
India and Africa are connected by historic linkages, cultural affinities and a shared experience of struggle against colonialism.
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➡️ Our… pic.twitter.com/LqSkkBPnOu
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 5, 2026
Speaking about the long-standing connection, Jaishankar said, “India’s own relations with Africa, of course, go back into the recesses of history. Indians and Africans have been interacting with each other for millennia.” He added, “Connected and not separated by the Indian Ocean, our ancestors have exchanged not just goods but also cultures, cuisines, philosophies, beliefs, knowledge, folklore, and I would even say ways of life.”
Recalling the colonial era, Jaishankar said India and Africa stood together in the struggle for freedom and human dignity. He also noted that Mahatma Gandhi developed the principles of Satyagraha and non-violence on African soil, which later inspired leaders including Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere and Nelson Mandela.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, Jaishankar said, “you gave us Mohandas Gandhi, we gave you the Mahatma.” He added that after independence, India and Africa emerged as equal partners and said Africa Day remains a deeply emotional occasion that reflects the strong solidarity and enduring friendship between the two regions.
