Establishing a strong rapport between two nations necessitates shared values, interests, and comprehensive understanding. The relationship between India and South Africa falls under this category, with the historical bond tracing back to Mahatma Gandhi’s Satyagraha movement in South Africa. Recently, both countries came together to develop institutional mechanisms for tie-ups between Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) & Skill Institutions.
Key Highlights of the Recent Bilateral Meeting
The recent bilateral meeting between India and South Africa was held in Bali, Indonesia. The focal point of the discussion was the plan to foster institutional mechanisms for academic and skill development partnerships. It was agreed upon to form a Joint Working Group on Education for both countries, aiming to strengthen the academic collaborations and mutual recognition of skill qualifications.
An important mention was the National Education Policy (NEP) of India, which has paved the way for the internationalisation of Indian education. These educational tie-ups are expected to boost bilateral education cooperation and aid capacity building in skill development.
A Glance at the Historical and Political Aspects of India-South Africa Relations
India’s solidarity with South Africa’s fight for freedom against apartheid is a significant chapter in history. Showing its unwavering support, India severed trade relations with South Africa’s apartheid government in 1946 and imposed a complete diplomatic, commercial, cultural, and sports embargo.
Later in November 1993, following the cessation of apartheid, India re-established diplomatic and consular relations. Post South Africa’s achievement of democracy in 1994, strategic partnerships between the two nations were strengthened, as manifested in the Red Fort Declaration (1997) and reaffirmed in the Tshwane Declaration (2006).
The Role of BRICS, IBSA, G20, IORA, and WTO
India and South Africa have consistently coordinated their efforts within various global governance/multilateral fora such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), IBSA (India, Brazil, and South Africa), G20, Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and World Trade Organisation (WTO).
Economic Aspects and Collaborations in Science and Technology
In 2016, both countries agreed to collaborate in the defence sector, energy sector, agro-processing, human resource development, and infrastructure development. The trade between India and South Africa exceeded the set target of USD 10 billion by 2020. The Department of Science and Technology of both nations have collaborated in projects like the Square Kilometer Array (SKA).
Cultural Exchange and Presence of Indian Diaspora in South Africa
With the help of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), an intensive programme of cultural exchanges is organised throughout South Africa, including scholarships for South African nationals. As an example of this vibrant cultural exchange, the 9th World Hindi Conference was held in Johannesburg in September 2012.
South Africa hosts a significant Indian diaspora community, making up 3% of South Africa’s total population, which had mostly migrated as farm labourers since 1860. Annually, on January 9th, India celebrates Pravasi Bhartiya Divas (PBD) in recognition of Mahatma Gandhi’s return from South Africa to India.
Recommendations for Future Collaborations
To deepen the relations further, it is suggested to initiate academic collaborations and student exchange programmes in areas such as Sanskrit language, Philosophy, Ayurveda, and Yoga. Additionally, establishment of collaborations in the skilling sector could boost tourism, hospitality, and business, thereby strengthening people-to-people linkages.