Health
By Sarafina Christopher
Abuja, May 21, 2026- The Government of India and the African Union (AU) have agreed to postpone the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS IV) earlier scheduled to be held in New Delhi from May 28 to May 31, 2026.
The decision followed consultations between both sides over the evolving health situation in parts of Africa.
This is contained in a joint press release issued on Thursday in New Delhi.
According to the statement, India and the AU had been working closely on preparations for the summit before the decision to shift the event to a later date.
The two sides also reaffirmed the importance of strengthening cooperation in public health preparedness and response capacities across Africa.
They emphasised continued support for the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and relevant national institutions.
“India reaffirmed its solidarity with the peoples and Governments of Africa and expressed its readiness to contribute to Africa CDC-led efforts aimed at addressing the evolving health situation.
“This is in line with the shared commitment to an Africa-led response,” the statement said.
It added that consultations were held between the Government of India, the Chairperson of the African Union and the African Union Commission regarding the summit and associated activities.
According to the statement, both sides agreed that postponing the summit would ensure full participation and engagement of African leaders and stakeholders.
It noted that new dates for the summit and related meetings would be finalised through mutual consultations and communicated in due course.
India and Africa also reaffirmed their longstanding partnership founded on solidarity, mutual respect, South-South cooperation and shared commitment to peace, development and prosperity.
The India-Africa Forum Summit serves as a key platform for political, economic and development cooperation between India and African countries.(NAN)
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