Future partnerships must build capabilities, not dependencies: EAM Jaishankar in Addis Ababa

External Affairs Minister S.Jaishankar on Friday emphasized that partnerships of the future should create capabilities rather than foster dependencies, while calling for fair representation for Africa in a reformed UN Security Council.

Speaking at the Adwa Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa, he said the India‑Africa partnership must evolve beyond historical solidarity to one based on mutual respect, equality, and shared prosperity.

Recalling the shared struggle against colonialism, Jaishankar quoted Nelson Mandela: “You gave us Mohan das Gandhi, we gave you Mahatma Gandhi.” He noted that India’s support for African freedom was part of its own unfinished journey toward independence.

He added that India’s G20 Presidency in 2023 helped secure permanent membership for the African Union, and the same principle should guide UN Security Council reform — making global governance more democratic, responsive, and representative.

Highlighting India’s longstanding ties with Ethiopia, Jaishankar mentioned Indian soldiers who fought in the country’s liberation and generations of Indian educators who contributed to Ethiopian institutions. He said the bilateral relationship, elevated to a strategic partnership during Prime Minister Modi’s visit last year, reflects India’s commitment to walk alongside Africa “as a friend and partner.”