NEW DELHI: President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Angola’s capital, Luanda, on Sunday for a state visit at the invitation of president Joao Lourenco. Upon her arrival, she was given a ceremonial welcome by the Angolan president.Earlier, president Murmu was received at the airport by Angola’s minister of external relations, Tete Antonio, and the vice governor of Luanda province, Jorge Miguens.This is the first-ever visit by an Indian head of state to the country. The visit marks 40 years of diplomatic relations between India and Angola. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the visit reflects India’s growing engagement with Africa and will further strengthen bilateral cooperation. “President Droupadi Murmu lands in Luanda, the capital city of Angola. India and Angola are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year. This visit will further strengthen India-Angola bilateral cooperation,” he wrote on X. Sudhakar Dalela, secretary (Economic relations) at the MEA, said the visit carries special significance as President Lourenço, who visited India in May, currently chairs the African Union. He recalled that India had consistently supported Angola during its freedom struggle.During the visit, the president will hold bilateral talks and attend Angola’s 50th Independence Day celebrations on November 11. She is also scheduled to address the Angolan parliament and meet members of the Indian community. Discussions will focus on deepening cooperation in areas such as energy, agriculture, trade, technology, infrastructure, defence, and investment. After completing her engagements in Angola, president Murmu will travel to Botswana from November 11 to 13.
