India strengthens ties with Africa: Indian President begins tour in Algeria

October 15, 2024 marks a significant date in India-Africa relations. Indian President Droupadi Murmu has chosen Algeria to begin a strategic tour of Africa. This initiative is part of a comprehensive effort to strengthen political, economic and cultural ties between India and several African countries. While this tour is in line with India’s foreign policy of rapprochement with Africa, it also highlights the growing importance of Africa in India’s geopolitical ambitions.

Algeria: a key partner for India

The choice of Algeria as the first stop on this tour is not insignificant. This North African country, rich in natural resources, is a strategic player both economically and geopolitically. For India, strengthening its relations with Algeria means not only securing crucial energy partnerships, but also establishing a stronger presence in North Africa, a region where competition with other powers, such as China and Russia, is fierce.

The energy sector is one of the central points of bilateral discussions. Algeria, as a major exporter of natural gas and oil, represents a particular interest for India, whose energy needs are constantly growing. Cooperation in this area would allow India to diversify its sources of energy supply while offering Algeria a reliable partner to modernize its infrastructure and boost its energy sector.

An Indian strategy for Africa

President Murmu’s tour is part of a broader strategy that India has been pursuing for several years. The country, Asia’s third-largest economy, has stepped up its diplomatic and economic efforts toward Africa in an effort to counter China’s growing influence on the continent. As China invests heavily in African infrastructure and develops strategic trade agreements, India is seeking to position itself as an alternative by focusing on relationships based on cooperation, development and fair trade.

India, with its large diaspora in several African countries, already has historical ties with Africa, including long-standing trade relations and strong cultural exchanges. Today, New Delhi aims to deepen these ties through partnerships in health, education, technology and defense.

During her tour, President Murmu will not limit herself to economic discussions. She also plans to focus on security cooperation, a crucial issue in a context where several African countries are facing increasing terrorist threats. India has also already expressed its willingness to contribute to peacekeeping efforts in Africa, including through missions under the aegis of the United Nations, where it regularly sends contingents.

Geopolitical competition in the background

The visit comes at a time of growing geopolitical rivalries. Africa has become a terrain of intense competition between the world's major powers, and India intends to play a leading role. With China's growing presence, Russia's military interventions and renewed interest from Western countries, India must step up its efforts to maintain its position on this continent rich in natural resources and economic opportunities.

Infrastructure projects, trade partnerships and cultural diplomacy are at the heart of India's strategy. But India also wants to stand out with a more human approach, by promoting sustainable development initiatives and South-South cooperation projects. One of the key elements of this strategy is the training of African youth. By offering scholarships, exchange programs and technical training, India aims to strengthen local skills while creating a new generation of African leaders with close ties to the country.

The Future of Indo-African Relations

This tour of President Murmu to Africa is a strong signal that India sees Africa not only as an economic partner, but also as a strategic ally for the future. As geopolitical rivalries multiply, Africa finds itself at a crossroads and India hopes to play a leading role in defining this new global dynamic.

Continuing her tour after Algeria, the Indian President will visit other strategic African countries, pursuing her objective of strengthening bilateral relations in areas as diverse as energy, defense, information technology and health. For India, this rapprochement with Africa is essential to diversify its alliances and consolidate its position on the international scene, while offering the African continent a loyal, reliable partner committed to a common future.