India Shares Angola’s Joy on 50 Years of Independence: President Murmu

• President Droupadi Murmu attended Angola’s 50th Independence Day ceremony in Luanda.
• She congratulated the people of Angola, calling it a proud moment for Africa and the world.
• Later, she arrived in Botswana — the first Indian Head of State to make an official visit.
• Botswana President Duma Gideon Boko welcomed her with a ceremonial guard of honour.

GG News Bureau
Luanda, 12th Nov: President Droupadi Murmu said India shares “Angola’s joy and pride” as the African nation marked 50 years of independence on November 11. Participating in the golden jubilee celebrations at Praça da República in Luanda, she joined Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço in witnessing a grand parade showcasing the country’s military and cultural heritage.

“India and Angola share a long history of friendship and solidarity. On this special day, India celebrates with the people of Angola as they commemorate five decades of freedom and progress,” President Murmu said during the event.

After attending the ceremony, President Murmu arrived in Gaborone, Botswana, in the final leg of her two-nation African tour. Her visit marks the first-ever State Visit by an Indian Head of State to Botswana, reflecting New Delhi’s growing strategic outreach to Africa.

In a warm gesture symbolising the close India-Botswana partnership, President Murmu was received at the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport by Botswana’s President, H.E. Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, and accorded a ceremonial welcome.

The visit is expected to further strengthen cooperation between India and Botswana in sectors such as trade, education, digital technology, and healthcare.