India continues to strengthen its relations with Africa by boosting trade and commerce, building infrastructure and offering scholarships to African students. Speaking at the India-Africa Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi on Thursday Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs Mr M Ganapathy stressed the need to explore new areas of mutual engagement.

AIR correspondent reports, highlighting India’s efforts to engage with the African Nations on issues related to Global Security, especially piracy and terrorism on the Somalian Coast Mr M Ganapathy said, India will continue its support to the African countries in their fight against colonialism , apartheid, poverty, disease, illiteracy and hunger.

The first India-Africa Forum Summit held in New Delhi in 2008 marked the beginning of a robust and contemporary partnership. The second Africa India Forum Summit, held in Addis Ababa in May this year, emphasised the renewed focus of India to strengthen and enhance its partnership with countries in the African continent.

Both the countries have identified climate change, food, energy and the financial crisis as the common challenges that face the world today. Both are committed to a balanced outcome of the climate change negotiations. Reform of the United Nations and the increased participation of developing countries in the decision making process are goals that both India and Africa identify with.