Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (Delwyn Verasamy/M&G)
India has plans for greater military cooperation with Africa, its Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the Mail & Guardian.
India is one of the world’s top military powers. It has the largest army tank and aircraft of any country besides the United States, China and Russia, and is the fourth highest military spender. India also has access to nuclear weapons.
In an interview with the M&G during the Brics summit, which brought together the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa last week, Modi said the emerging superpower had plans to play a more active role in enhancing Africa’s military defence.
India’s influence in Brics has grown in parallel with its growing stature as a geopolitical superpower. In 2022, it surpassed the United Kingdom to become the fifth-largest economy in the world. Expectations are that its economy will shoot up to the third spot by 2029.
“India is connected to the East coast of the African continent through the Indian Ocean. Therefore, our defence, security and maritime interests are intertwined,” Modi said.
“In 2015, during my visit to Mauritius, I had given my vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region. This vision defines our approach towards defence and maritime security while working with our partners in Africa.
“There is mutual desire to further enhance defence cooperation that is driven by common security challenges, threat perceptions, and a collective commitment to work towards the security and stability of the region.
“This is what true friends are for. And, it is a part of our Indian value system and that we never leave our friends alone at the time of their needs.”
Modi said defence cooperation had emerged as an important pillar in India-Africa relations. Two India-Africa defence conclaves have been held, one in 2020 and the second last year.
In March, India conducted the first-ever joint army chiefs conclave. At least 21 African army chiefs participated in the military exercise this year and South Africa was among the countries represented.
“We are cooperating with several countries in the region in providing training and capacity building. We hold joint exercises too. The Indian Navy has emerged as a security provider in the Western Indian Ocean region, offering timely delivery of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief during emergencies,” Modi said.
He added that India had contributed to enhancing the defence capabilities of African countries, including providing reliable and affordable military hardware like patrol craft and light helicopters.
“It is not just about supplying equipment. India is committed to empowering African states to indigenously meet their military requirements by sharing expertise and knowledge in defence manufacturing, research, and development. India has assisted countries, like Nigeria and Tanzania, in setting up defence academies and providing them with instructors and training material.
India has also contributed a large number of its troops to United Nations peacekeeping operations in Africa. Nearly 5 000 Indian personnel are currently serving in these peacekeeping operations.