India and Angola have taken a significant step forward in their bilateral relations, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi announcing a $200 million defence line of credit to support the modernization of Angola’s armed forces. The announcement came during the state visit of Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenço — the first such visit to India in 38 years.
At a joint press briefing, Secretary (Economic Relations) Dammu Ravi emphasized the growing importance of defence cooperation between the two countries. “The Prime Minister has offered a defence line of credit worth 200 million dollars, in Indian rupees. Angola will be sourcing various defence equipment from both Indian private and public sector firms,” he stated.
He also highlighted a key synergy in defence collaboration — both countries operate a large number of Soviet-era defence systems, creating opportunities for India to assist Angola with servicing, overhauling, and maintenance.
During delegation-level talks, PM Modi called the visit “historic,” noting it gives “new direction and momentum” to the India-Angola partnership. He reiterated India’s longstanding support for Angola’s independence movement and said the two nations are celebrating 40 years of diplomatic relations this year.
“Our partnership spans multiple sectors. India is one of the largest importers of Angola’s oil and gas. We’ve agreed to expand our energy cooperation, and I’m pleased to announce the approval of the $200 million defence credit line for Angola’s armed forces,” Modi said.
He also announced India’s willingness to assist with military training and overhaul of defence platforms.
Expanding beyond defence, India and Angola agreed to deepen collaboration in healthcare, diamond processing, fertilizers, and critical minerals. PM Modi also highlighted Angola’s growing interest in Indian culture, noting the popularity of yoga and Bollywood, and revealed a new Youth Exchange Programme aimed at strengthening people-to-people ties.
India welcomed Angola’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance and invited it to participate in India-led global initiatives, including the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and the Global Biofuels Alliance.
The leaders reaffirmed their shared stance against terrorism, with PM Modi expressing gratitude to Angola for its support following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. He also congratulated Angola on its current chairmanship of the African Union, acknowledging Africa’s permanent membership in the G20 as a proud achievement during India’s presidency.
Highlighting India’s broader engagement with Africa, PM Modi noted the opening of 17 new embassies, allocation of over $12 billion in credit lines, and substantial development assistance across the continent in recent years.
“India and the African Union are partners in progress. We are pillars of the Global South,” Modi declared, expressing confidence that under Angola’s leadership, India-Africa ties will grow even stronger.