GS 2 – International Relations
Context:
India is redefining its engagement with African countries through cultural diplomacy, economic cooperation, and technology transfer, offering an alternative to Western conditional aid approaches.
Key Highlights of Recent Engagement
- Historic Visit:
- Prime Minister Modi addressed Namibia’s National Assembly in July, incorporating local cultural references.
- This marked the first visit by an Indian head of government to Namibia in nearly three decades.
- Trade & Development:
- Bilateral trade stands at $800 million.
- India supports Africa with a $12 billion development partnership, promoting sustainable growth.
- Technology Diplomacy:
- Namibia became the first African country to adopt India’s UPI (Unified Payments Interface).
- India invests in capacity-building, including the India-Namibia Centre of Excellence in IT.
Strategic Approach
- Cultural & Historical Ties:
- India highlights a shared anti-colonial history and emphasizes pragmatic cooperation.
- India hosted the SWAPO’s first diplomatic office during Namibia’s liberation struggle.
- Peacekeeping & Diplomacy:
- Lt. General Diwan Prem Chand, an Indian officer, commanded UN peacekeeping forces during Namibia’s independence transition.
- Institutional & Future-Oriented Cooperation:
- MOUs signed during the visit cover entrepreneurship and health.
- Namibia joined the Global Biofuels Alliance, reflecting alignment with global sustainability goals.
Strategic Significance of Namibia
- Political Stability: Provides a predictable environment for partnerships.
- Natural Resources: Rich in minerals, especially uranium.
- Technological Base: Supports India-led tech initiatives and capacity-building.
- Policy Alignment: Namibia’s leadership advocates for global economic reform, resonating with India’s vision in the Global South.
Note: A major agreement on critical mineral reserves was not finalized, highlighting ongoing negotiation areas.
Upcoming Opportunities
- The India-Africa Forum Summit offers a platform to institutionalize cooperation and strengthen India-Africa partnerships.