December 20th 2024.
India, the vibrant country in South Asia, has once again shown its compassionate side by dispatching a consignment of 1000 metric tonnes of rice to Lesotho on Friday. This gesture is a part of India's humanitarian assistance to the landlocked African country, aimed at addressing food security and nutritional needs of its people. The consignment set sail from Nhava Sheva Port, as confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs.
This is not the first time that India has extended a helping hand to Lesotho. In the past, similar consignments have been sent as a gesture of goodwill and friendship between the two nations. India has always been quick to respond to the devastating effects of natural disasters and famine in sub-Saharan African countries. This is in line with India's commitment towards South-South cooperation.
India and Lesotho have been working together in various areas such as development partnership, trade and economic relations, energy, agriculture, health, art and culture, and consular matters. This partnership is a testament to the strong bond between the two countries.
India has always been a friend to Africa, especially in times of crisis. During the Covid-19 pandemic, India provided 150 tonnes of medical aid to 32 African countries under its noble initiative, 'Vaccine Maitri'. The Indian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has also provided relief material to countries like Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, and Mozambique, which were affected by natural disasters.
Earlier this year, the External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, highlighted the deep-rooted relations between India and Africa, which go back in history. He stated that these relations have been redefined by PM Modi's 10 guiding principles. These principles include India's commitment to help Africa reach its full potential by building local capacity and creating opportunities, keeping Indian markets open, sharing India's experience in the digital revolution, improving public services, promoting education and digital literacy, enhancing agriculture, addressing climate change, and keeping the oceans open for the benefit of all nations.
During India's G20 Presidency, the country made sure that the voices of the Global South were heard, and their aspirations were given importance. The inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 in 2023 is a matter of great pride for India. The country also supports the 'Ezulwini Consensus' and the 'Sirte Declaration' of the African Union and has reiterated its commitment to the Global South through the 'Voice of Global South Summits'.
EAM Jaishankar, while addressing the Africa Day celebrations on June 25, emphasized the need for India and Africa to engage and work closely together. He assured that Africa will always be a top priority for India, in line with the country's vision of being a 'Vishwa Bandhu' or a friend to the world.
In conclusion, EAM Jaishankar recalled the words of PM Modi, who had said, "India's priority is not just Africa; India's priority is Africans - every man, woman, and child in Africa. Our partnership with Africa goes beyond strategic concerns and economic benefits; it is based on the emotional bonds and solidarity we share." This truly reflects the strong and enduring bond between India and Africa.
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