- Mozambique, S. Africa, Kenya, Tanzania
- giving primacy to the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) (security dimension), whose westernmost edge is defined by these countries
- mega-modernization project of ‘Sagar Mala’, (coastal area development, port infrastructure advancement, connectivity and sea-based industrial synergies)=> interlinked to our strategic drive to be the defense and logistical partner for Africa’s eastern coast.
- Chinese economy slowdown => its absorption rates for African minerals at a low point, Africa needs an alternative (India's make in India). Also, China not giving jobs to Africans in their projects in Africa.
- We need export markets as we industrialize (presently, two-way trade $72 billion)
- Also, Africa also a good market for Services export
- Africa has the youthful demography and the rising purchasing power
- Irritant: Racial attacks on Africans in India
- PM should call a conference of foreign students and ask what they want. Also, need to create awareness regarding Africa in public.
- Season of apologies (Canadian PM's apology for Komagata Maru, Pope's apology to LGBT)
- But the visit will focus only on the good things. It is human nature and diplomatic practice to focus on the pleasant, on ‘areas of convergence’. It feels good to do so.
- Presence of Indian companies in Africa: Mahindra, Tata, Airtel, Apollo Services etc
- Earlier, overdependence on South Africa (BRICS, IBSA, etc.).
- Potential area of cooperation: Anti terrorism
PS: This is a pre-visit analysis. Post visit analysis will follow soon.
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