Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged firm and decisive action against terrorists and their supporters following the Pahalgam attack that killed around 28 people. Speaking during a media interaction with Angolan President João Lourenço, PM Narendra Modi also emphasized India’s growing partnership with Africa, offering defence and digital cooperation to Angola, while taking a hard stance on cross-border terrorism, particularly from Pakistan.
Addressing the press in New Delhi, PM Narendra Modi called terrorism the “biggest threat to humanity” and expressed gratitude to Angola for standing with India in the aftermath of the April 22 attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The assault, which occurred near the scenic Pahalgam meadows, has sharply escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, with clear indications of cross-border involvement.
“We are committed to take firm and decisive action against terrorists and those who support them,” PM Narendra Modi said, adding that Angola’s expression of solidarity was deeply appreciated. His comments came just a day after India rolled out a series of tough retaliatory measures against Pakistan.
India responded by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 and closing the only functional land border crossing at Attari. The Indian government has also granted its armed forces full operational freedom to choose the time and method of their response to the terror attack, reflecting the seriousness of the situation and the intent to strike back decisively.
Defence and Energy Cooperation with Angola
In a significant move to strengthen ties with Angola, PM Narendra Modi announced a $200 million defence credit line to support the modernisation of the African nation’s armed forces. Discussions included the overhaul and supply of defence equipment and training support for Angolan troops.
India, one of the largest importers of Angolan oil and gas, also committed to expanding the energy partnership. PM Narendra Modi said India will collaborate with Angola on space technology, digital infrastructure, and capacity building across sectors.
Wider Africa Outreach and Strategic Alliances
PM Narendra Modi highlighted India’s deeper engagement with Africa, citing nearly $100 billion in trade and expanded defence cooperation, including the recent India-Africa naval exercise. Over the last decade, India has opened 17 new embassies across the continent and extended more than $12 billion in credit lines, in addition to $700 million in grants.
Agreements signed with Angola during the visit included cooperation in agriculture, traditional medicine, and culture. Angola also formally joined the International Solar Alliance, further cementing the growing strategic partnership.
