o AAGC-led growth in Africa and Asia will be responsive to the collective commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

2.5.2.1. Challenges to be overcome by the AAGC

♤ Firstly, the African countries are in different stages of development. Adding to this is the fact that Africa was colonised by different European powers in the past. This means that there are huge differences in governance structures, languages and societal norms within Africa. It would, therefore, not be possible for India and Japan to treat all of them with the same stroke

♤ There are issues of infrastructure bottlenecks and coordination between New Delhi and Tokyo. Unlike in Japan, decision-making process in India is far more complex and, at times, painstakingly slow.

♤ China already has an advantage when it comes to trade with Africa – it has been Africa’s biggest trading partner since 2009.Although there is some unhappiness among African states on the manner in which China is reaching out to the continent, these states require funding and development support, which China is happy to provide. India and Japan will have to compete with China in the African market.

♤ Lastly, there is civil strife in a number of the African countries poses security challenges. This could create hurdles for India and Japan in their infrastructure development plans in the continent. The two countries will need to tread carefully. Despite increased military and technological cooperation between Japan and India, both countries are at a disadvantage with regards to power projection across Asia and Africa. While it does not feature in the program of the AAGC, security plays a key role in foreign policy establishments across the Indo-Pacific.