New Delhi: India and South Africa on Wednesday agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in future technologies, with artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure and advanced manufacturing emerging as key focus areas for the next phase of engagement between the two countries, according to an official statement.
The Ministry of Science and Technology said the decision was taken during bilateral talks between Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh and South Africa's Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Nomlungelo Gina, who visited the national capital with a high-level delegation.
During the meeting, Singh called for taking the partnership beyond traditional research collaboration towards innovation-based engagement capable of driving economic and social impact at scale.
“The next phase of India-South Africa engagement should be shaped by emerging technologies, innovation ecosystem, startup partnerships and industry-linked research,” Singh said.
According to him, both the countries have complementary strengths that can help create affordable and scalable solutions for the developing world.
The Minister said, as influential voices of the Global South, India and South Africa are increasingly shaping global discussions around science, technology and innovation through platforms including BRICS, IBSA, G20 and IORA.
He highlighted India's rapid progress in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, cyber-physical systems, digital public infrastructure and startup-led innovation and said that these advances create new opportunities for collaborative research and technology partnerships.
A major outcome of the discussions was the decision to intensify cooperation in advanced materials and manufacturing, geospatial technologies and digital infrastructure – areas identified as priority areas under the India-South Africa Joint Committee mechanism.
Additionally, the discussions highlighted opportunities in biotechnology, genomics, vaccine development, health technologies and pandemic preparedness, with both sides stressing the need for stronger scientific partnerships following recent global health challenges.
Meanwhile, South Africa expressed interest in enhancing cooperation with India in renewable energy, hydrogen technologies, health sciences, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies and skill development.
Dr. Jeena said South Africa views India as a reliable partner and is keen to strengthen institutional ties and innovation partnerships in priority areas.
Additionally, the two sides reviewed cooperation in astronomy, including progress under the Square Kilometer Array (SKA) project, which Singh described as one of the most ambitious scientific collaborations globally.