Ebola scare: India postpones India-Africa Forum Summit

New Delhi: India has postponed the fourth India-Africa Forum Summit scheduled to be held in New Delhi from May 28 to 31 amid growing fears over the rapid spread of the Ebola virus across several African nations. The decision comes as governments and health authorities intensify emergency responses following warnings over the escalating public health crisis on the continent.

Government sources said meetings connected to the summit and fresh dates for the high-level gathering would be announced later. In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs along with the African Union, India reaffirmed its solidarity with African nations and stated that it remained committed to supporting the strengthening of healthcare systems across the continent.

The summit was intended to deepen India-Africa partnerships and expand cooperation across multiple sectors in collaboration with the African Union. It was also significant because it was being organised after a gap of nearly 10 years following previous editions held in 2008, 2011 and 2015.

According to the joint statement, consultations were held between the Government of India, the Chairperson of the African Union and the African Union Commission after taking into account the worsening health situation in Africa and the need to ensure full participation of African leaders and delegates.

The postponement comes as Ebola infections continue spreading in parts of Africa, raising fears of a wider international health emergency. Following the World Health Organisation's declaration of Ebola as an international health emergency, the Indian government has stepped up precautionary measures. The Union Health Ministry convened an emergency review meeting and issued a nationwide high-alert warning as authorities moved to strengthen surveillance and preparedness against any possible outbreak spillover into India.