India-Africa Forum Summit meeting postponed due to Ebola outbreak!

The Ebola virus outbreak is spreading rapidly. Meanwhile, the governments of all the countries have come on alert mode. Screening and monitoring of passengers has been increased at airports. Meanwhile, the Government of India and the African Union have postponed the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS IV) in view of the Ebola outbreak.

The first IAFS IV summit was scheduled to be held in New Delhi from 28-31 May. The Ministry of External Affairs said the two sides shared their views on the changing health situation in parts of Africa and reiterated the importance of continued cooperation in strengthening public health preparedness and response capacities across the continent, including supporting the Africa CDC and relevant national institutions.

The Ministry of External Affairs said India reiterated its solidarity with the people and governments of Africa and expressed its readiness to contribute to the Africa CDC-led efforts. It aims to respond to the changing health situation, in line with a shared commitment to an Africa-led response.

Recognizing the importance of ensuring full participation and engagement of African leaders and stakeholders, and keeping in mind the evolving public health situation in the continent, the Summit and related activities were discussed between the Government of India, the Chairperson of the African Union and the African Union Commission.

After this conversation, both sides agreed that it would be appropriate to hold the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit at a later date. New dates for the summit and related meetings will be decided through mutual discussion and will be communicated at the appropriate time.

India and Africa reaffirmed their longstanding partnership based on solidarity, mutual respect, South-South cooperation and a common commitment to peace, development, prosperity and well-being of their peoples.