India-Africa cooperation must revolve around shared ambitions, not just shared memories, says Damu Ravi

India-Africa cooperation must revolve around shared ambitions, not just shared memories, remarked Damu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations), Ministry of External Affairs.

“Let’s take this discussion and dialogue to more contemporary times. Today, Africa has become aspirational… they are very aware of their history and want to cover their own future,” Ravi said.

He delivered the inaugural address at the India-Africa Dialogue organised by India’s leading public policy body Ananta Aspen Centre and highlighted the evolving trajectory of India-Africa relations.


Ravi emphasized the deep historical foundation of India-Africa relations, grounded in the common struggle against colonialism. He positioned this shared past not as a nostalgic reference, but as a mutual bond of empathy and solidarity that continues to shape the present.

The senior diplomat highlighted the reciprocal influence of key leaders and ideologies in both regions and stated how Mahatma Gandhi’s values inspired African liberation movements.

He further noted how Nelson Mandela’s leadership resonated globally and inspired political thought across generations, including in India. Ravi stressed the important role of the 3.2 million-strong Indian diaspora in Africa.

Ravi described the diaspora as a vital connector that actively sustains people-to-people ties and enriches bilateral engagements. He framed the diaspora not as a passive population but as partners in progress and diplomacy.

He acknowledged Africa’s confidence, self-awareness, and strategic agency in shaping its own development trajectory.

The dialogue witnessed participation by India’s leading Africa experts, envoys of African nations and Indian conglomerates in Africa.