New Delhi [India]: Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer VSDL Surendra has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the Gabonese Republic, according to an announcement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday.
Strengthening India-Gabon Relations
India and Gabon share a long-standing relationship, marked by mutual cooperation and support in international forums. Gabon was among the first nations to sign and ratify the International Solar Alliance (ISA) framework agreement. Both countries have also backed each other’s bids for non-permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)—India for 2021-22 and Gabon for 2022-23.
Indian Community in Gabon
Currently, around 1,000 to 1,200 Indians reside in Gabon, engaging in diverse sectors such as:
- Infrastructure projects
- Trading and export of timber and metal scrap
- Manganese mining
- Travel and tourism
Enhancing South-South Cooperation
India has been proactive in fostering unity among Global South nations. During the Voice of the Global South Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of collaboration:
“Let’s learn from one another’s experiences, share our capabilities, and together transform our resolutions into success. Our strength lies in our unity.”
Recent Developments
The opening of India’s mission in Gabon aligns with the broader diplomatic initiative announced during Prime Minister Modi’s third term to enhance India’s global presence, especially in Africa and the Global South.
This appointment is expected to further bolster the warm and cooperative relationship between India and Gabon, opening new avenues for economic and strategic partnerships.