President Droupadi Murmu set for state visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi starting October 13

President Droupadi Murmu will embark on a significant state visit to three African nations—Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi—beginning October 13. This trip underscores the growing partnership between India and Africa, as highlighted by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday.

Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations) at the MEA, emphasized that this visit follows the African Union's inclusion as a member of the G20 at last year's summit, which was presided over by India. He noted, "This visit should be seen in the context of Africa as a continent and how India wishes to engage. It reflects our desire for a stronger partnership with Africa," highlighting the continent's pivotal role in the Global South, which comprises 54 countries.

President Murmu's visit will commence in Algeria, followed by Mauritania, and conclude in Malawi. In Algeria, she will meet with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune from October 13 to 15, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian President to Algeria in nearly four decades. This visit comes shortly after President Tebboune's inauguration for his second term in office.

According to MEA Secretary Arun Kumar Chatterjee, India and Algeria share "very strong bonds of friendship," with their bilateral relations characterized as "warm and cordial."

Following her time in Algeria, President Murmu will travel to Mauritania, where she will engage with the Indian community and sign four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). She is scheduled to arrive in Malawi on October 17, with this three-nation visit presenting an opportunity to "deepen and broaden" relations with Africa and enhance bilateral ties with each nation.