President Droupadi Murmu has returned to India after a significant three-nation visit to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi. She departed from Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe, Malawi, wrapping up her journey on Saturday.
The primary focus of this visit was to strengthen diplomatic ties and enhance cooperation between India and the African nations she visited.
During her final day in Malawi, President Murmu met with her counterpart, President Lazarus Chakwera. Their discussions spanned various topics, resulting in several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) being signed.
These agreements covered important areas such as arts and culture, youth matters, sports, and pharmaceutical cooperation. President Murmu also announced India’s commitment to establishing a permanent Artificial Limb Fitment Centre in Malawi, which is expected to benefit many individuals in need.
President Murmu took the opportunity to acknowledge the vital role of the Indian community in Malawi. She emphasised that the Indian diaspora serves as a living link between the two nations, contributing to the strong diplomatic relations they share. “India and Malawi have completed 60 years of diplomatic relations,” she noted. “These relations are historical, and we also have deep cultural ties.”
The President highlighted that India values its partnership with the African continent, which is built on principles of mutual trust, equality, and mutual benefit. She expressed that India's model of cooperation with Africa focuses on harnessing local resources and building capacity while prioritising Africa's own needs.
Arriving in Malawi on October 17, President Murmu was welcomed by Malawi's Vice President, Michael Usi, and other dignitaries at the airport. She received a ceremonial welcome, which included a traditional cultural performance, marking the significance of her visit.
This trip marked the first-ever visit by an Indian President to the three African countries and came a year after the African Union was granted permanent membership in the G20 during India’s presidency. President Murmu was accompanied by Union Minister of State Sukanta Majumdar and Members of Parliament Mukeshkumar Dalal and Atul Garg.
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