There is a reason why longtime India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, pleaded for Africa to have a permanent membership in the G-20 through the African Union, the largest and most powerful continental institution in Africa.
At the start of the recent G20 summit in New Delhi, prime minister Modi began proceedings with an announcement that reveals the importance the Indian government is placing on relationships with Africa. And now we know why. The permanent membership of the African Union in the G20 is a purely strategic geopolitical move that would serve India’s political and economic interests.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Africa is seen as part of India's broader strategy to enhance its ties with the continent and bolster its own global standing.
India has long had close ties with Africa, dating back to the days of the Non-Aligned Movement. In recent years, however, India has sought to deepen its economic and political engagement with the continent. This is driven by a number of factors, including India's own growing economic clout, its desire to secure access to Africa's natural resources.
Modi's visit to Africa was aimed at further strengthening these ties. He visited five countries - Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda - and signed a number of agreements on trade, investment, and development cooperation. He also addressed the African Union and pledged India's continued support for the continent's development.
India's engagement with Africa is seen as part of its broader quest to become a superpower. By deepening its ties with Africa, India is seeking to gain influence on the continent and to counter the growing influence of China. India is also hoping to secure access to Africa's natural resources, such as oil, gas, and minerals.
Moreover, India's engagement with Africa is likely to have a significant impact on the continent. India is a major economic power and its investment in Africa is likely to boost the continent's economies. India is also a major provider of development assistance and its expertise in areas such as agriculture, education, and healthcare is likely to be of benefit to African countries.
By engaging with Africa, India is demonstrating its commitment to global cooperation and development. This will help to enhance India's image and reputation on the world stage.
However, India's engagement with Africa is not without its challenges. India is facing competition from other major powers, such as China, for influence in Africa. India is also likely to face criticism from some quarters for its own human rights record.
India's investment and expertise are likely to be of benefit to African countries, but India will also face challenges from other major powers and from critics of its human rights record.