Angola Joins ISA; Signs Key MoUs with India during Presidential Visit 

In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations, the President of Angola, João Lourenço, concluded a state visit to India in May 2025. The visit resulted in the signing of crucial Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in Ayurveda, agriculture, and culture, along with India’s approval of a USD 200 million Line of Credit (LOC) for defence procurement by Angola. Marking a milestone in global climate cooperation, Angola also joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as its 123rd member.

Why in News?

The President of Angola’s state visit to India took place in early May 2025. Multiple agreements were signed enhancing bilateral cooperation in traditional medicine, agriculture, and cultural exchange. India approved a $200 million LOC for Angola’s defence sector.

Major Outcomes of the Visit

1. MoUs Signed

• Ayurveda and Traditional Medicine: A memorandum was signed to promote cooperation in Ayurveda and other traditional systems of medicine. This will enable knowledge exchange, training, and collaborative research.
• Agriculture: Both countries agreed to share best practices, technologies, and capacity-building programs in the agricultural sector.
• Cultural Cooperation (2025–2029): A programme was signed to facilitate cultural exchange, promote mutual understanding, and support exhibitions, festivals, and scholarly interactions.

2. Angola Joins the International Solar Alliance (ISA)

• By signing the ISA Framework Agreement, Angola became the 123rd member.
• The ISA, an India-led initiative, promotes solar energy deployment in solar-rich countries lying between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
• Angola’s inclusion signals its commitment to clean energy and climate action.

3. Defence Credit Line

• India approved a Line of Credit (LOC) worth USD 200 million for Angola to procure defence-related equipment and services.
• This aligns with India’s efforts to bolster defence cooperation with African nations and promote its defence exports under the “Make in India” initiative.

Background and Significance

• Angola is a key energy-rich nation in Southern Africa and an important partner in India’s Africa policy.
• India has consistently supported capacity building and development cooperation in Africa through training, grants, and concessional lines of credit.
• The agreements reflect a maturing partnership moving towards strategic and diversified cooperation.
• Angola’s entry into ISA enhances India’s leadership role in global renewable energy diplomacy.