President of Angola, Joao Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço accorded a ceremonial welcome at forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan –

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President of Angola, Joao Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan in the National Capital this morning. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the President of Angola.

Speaking to the media, President Lourenço highlighted that this State visit marks the first in 38 years, making it a significant moment for Angola. He emphasized the importance of the visit in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between India and Angola.

President Lourenço expressed his delegation’s deep appreciation for the warm and hospitable reception they received from the people of India. President Lourenço also paid tribute to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

Later in the day, Prime Minister Modi will hold delegation level talks with President of Angola in New Delhi. Several agreements are expected to be signed between the two countries following the talks to boost bilateral cooperation in various fields. President of Angola arrived in New Delhi yesterday on three-day State Visit to India. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including several Ministers, senior officials, business houses and media.

President Droupadi Murmu will hold discussions with her Angolan counterpart and will also host a banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda will call on the President of Angola.

The visit of the President of Angola to India is taking place after 38 years. The visit comes at a time when India and Angola are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year.

Tomorrow, President Laurenco will participate in a business event in New Delhi, aimed at promoting investment and commercial linkages between the two countries. India and Angola enjoy warm and friendly relations built over the years. Bilateral relations of the two countries are underpinned by a vibrant energy partnership. Bilateral trade between the two countries has been growing and reached over four billion dollars during 2023-2024.

The Development Partnership, Capacity-Building Cooperation and Defence relationship have also been expanding. Both countries support each other’s candidature at various multilateral fora including in the United Nations.