The India Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) celebrates the partnership between the two countries and acknowledges their common history and future prospects. It is held once in every three years and serves as an official platform for the relationships between Africa and India. It is a landmark occasion which marks the relationships of the African continent and India. India and Africa share a historic relationship which has evolved into a sustainable partnership. Both the countries have faced the challenges of colonialism and apartheid.
Prof. (Dr.) Balvir S. Tomar stated that we want to travel far on the path of development and we want to travel together with our African friends and partners, in the true spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (Together with all, Development for all).
Sushma Swaraj, the IAFS External Affairs Minister highlighted the spirit of cooperation and partnership between the countries focusing on the concept of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.” She said that the third India-Africa Forum Summit in Delhi was like a ‘family reunion’ and pointed to the shared history of struggle against imperialism, colonialism, racial discrimination and apartheid between the countries.
Ms. Swaraj further added that India has always stood for and with Africa. The relationship between the two countries is forged in the crucible of the shared struggle against imperialism, colonialism, racial discrimination and apartheid. The longstanding and multifaceted India-Africa development partnership is based on the principles of equality, friendship and solidarity. It represents one of the finest examples of South-South cooperation.