Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenço will begin his first official state visit to India on Thursday, marking a historic step in diplomatic relations between the two nations.

This is the first visit by an Angolan head of state to India in 38 years, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. The visit is expected to strengthen bilateral cooperation across key sectors.

President Lourenço will meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A ceremonial welcome is scheduled at Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 3, followed by a luncheon hosted by PM Modi.

The Angolan leader is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including ministers, senior officials, and business leaders. Several MoUs and agreements are expected to be signed during the visit to expand collaboration in areas such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and mining.

On May 4, he will attend a business event in New Delhi to promote trade and investment ties. Indian and Angolan business leaders will explore opportunities for cooperation, particularly in oil and gas, one of the central pillars of their economic relationship.

In FY 2023–24, bilateral trade reached $4.192 billion. Both countries also maintain strong cooperation at international forums, including the United Nations.

President Lourenço’s visit is set to pave the way for a more robust and dynamic partnership aligned with the shared goals of both nations.