India and South Africa review cooperation in trade, defence, technology, education and other sectors during the 12th Foreign Office Consultations in Pretoria, reaffirming plans to deepen their Strategic Partnership.
India and South Africa have reviewed their Strategic Partnership during the 12th round of Foreign Office Consultations held in Pretoria, reaffirming their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across key sectors. The discussions covered trade and investment, defence and security, development partnerships, science and technology, education, counter-terrorism, wildlife conservation, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
The Indian delegation was led by Janesh Kain, Joint Secretary for East and Southern Africa at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The South African delegation was headed by Ambassador David Malcomson, Acting Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). The consultations provided an opportunity for both countries to assess the progress of existing cooperation mechanisms and identify areas for further engagement.
Also Read: The Power of Digital Twins in Real-Time Monitoring and Optimization
During the meeting, both sides reviewed high-level exchanges and institutional mechanisms supporting their bilateral relationship. Discussions also focused on strengthening commercial partnerships, expanding investment opportunities and advancing cooperation in defence, security and development initiatives. Science and technology, educational exchanges and cultural engagement featured among the areas identified for continued collaboration.
The two countries also discussed regional and international developments of mutual interest, including cooperation through multilateral platforms. Their engagement reflects shared interests in addressing international challenges and strengthening coordination in global forums.
Wildlife conservation, particularly cheetah conservation, was another area included in the discussions. India and South Africa have been cooperating on the reintroduction of cheetahs in India, with the partnership forming part of their broader environmental and biodiversity engagement. The two countries also continue to maintain cooperation through cultural programmes and people-to-people exchanges.
The consultations come ahead of an important milestone in bilateral relations. The year 2027 will mark 30 years since India and South Africa established their Strategic Partnership in 1997. Both governments view the anniversary as an opportunity to further strengthen and diversify cooperation across political, economic, technological and cultural areas.
Also Read: Innovative Materials Driving Product Development in Manufacturing
India and South Africa maintain established institutional channels, including the Joint Ministerial Commission and Foreign Office Consultations, to review bilateral cooperation and advance agreed initiatives. The previous round of Foreign Office Consultations was held in New Delhi in August 2022.
At the conclusion of the latest discussions, both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the Strategic Partnership and agreed to hold the 13th round of Foreign Office Consultations in India at a mutually convenient date. The continued dialogue is expected to support closer engagement and provide a platform for expanding cooperation across areas of shared interest.