India-Africa Forum Summit Postponed
New Delhi: The India-Africa Forum Summit IV, scheduled to take place in New Delhi from May 28 to 31, has been postponed due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak affecting parts of Africa. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the decision on Thursday, stating that fresh dates for the summit and related meetings will be announced after mutual consultations between participating countries.
The summit was expected to witness participation from African leaders and key stakeholders, making it one of the major diplomatic engagements planned by India this year.
In its official statement, the MEA said India continues to stand in solidarity with African countries during the evolving health situation. The government reiterated its support for initiatives led by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and other national health institutions.
The statement highlighted the long-standing partnership between India and African nations, built on mutual respect, South-South cooperation, and shared goals related to development, peace, and public welfare.
Amid growing concerns, India has also issued a precautionary advisory for travellers arriving from or transiting through Ebola-affected countries. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) advised passengers showing symptoms or having exposure history to report to health authorities before immigration clearance.
The advisory specifically mentioned travellers from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan, all identified by the World Health Organization as high-risk countries.
Officials confirmed that no Ebola case has been reported in India so far, while states and Union Territories have been asked to remain fully prepared.
