The Isandlwana battlefield reminded Consul General of India, Durban, Niteen Subhash Yeola, of the cherished freedom earned through long struggles against colonialism and apartheid. 

Yeola shared this on Tuesday evening during a reception dinner held for the 77th Republic Day of India.

Yeola stated that as they celebrate Republic Day, they should renew their dedication to the principles defining their Republic and strengthen the bonds of friendship between India and South Africa. 

Addressing attendees, Yeola commended the Indian diaspora in South Africa, whose hard work, integrity, and achievements have earned respect and admiration. He described them as an integral part of South Africa’s diverse society and a vital bridge between the two countries.

“Last week, I witnessed the battlefield of Isandlwana. It reminded me yet again how much we cherish the freedom that was hard earned through long struggles of independence, and long walks of freedom from the shackles of colonialism and apartheid,” Yeola said. 

“India and South Africa share a relationship rooted in history, strengthened by shared struggles against colonialism and injustice, and guided by common democratic values. The legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, who began his journey of non-violent resistance on South African soil, continues to inspire our partnership.” 

Yeola also noted that last year, as South Africa led the G20 presidency, India actively supported and participated in it, steering a successful and impactful agenda, amplifying the voice of the Global South. Prime Minister of India, His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, had a very fruitful visit to South Africa in November 2025 to attend the G20 Leaders Summit. 

He also shared that several ministers from India visited South Africa last year. These visits included the Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment between India and South Africa.  

KZN Legislature Speaker Nontembeko Boyce said the bonds between KwaZulu-Natal and India transcend mere contemporary trade and diplomatic relationships. Their ties are deeply rooted in the shared history of South Africa and India.

She congratulated India on its Republic Day and its role in the continued protection of democracy, multilateralism, and respect for international law. 

“We are proud of the role of India in ensuring that there’s peace globally. We are also proud of the role of the leadership of India in ensuring that peace is mutually beneficial when it comes to areas of trade. I mention this because between South Africa and India, we have a balance sheet exceeding 19 billion US dollars in trade,” Boyce said. 

“And of this amount, KZN has a large share, especially relating to us being home to two major ports in the Republic of South Africa, that is the ports of Durban and Richards Bay, which still remain key to our growing trade with India, especially for pharmaceutical, engineering goods, and rice, not excluding the exploitation of minerals by South Africa.” 

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za

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