Consuls General S. Koventhan and Luís Afonso Laginha de Azevedo Carneiro Martins discuss issues of mutual interest, highlighting continued diplomatic engagement between India and Portugal in South Africa.

The Consul General of India in Johannesburg, Shri S. Koventhan, held a meeting with the Consul General of Portugal in Johannesburg, Mr. Luís Afonso Laginha de Azevedo Carneiro Martins, in a diplomatic engagement focused on issues of mutual interest.

India and Portugal Engage on Shared Interests

The two diplomats discussed issues of mutual interest, providing an opportunity to exchange views and strengthen communication between the Indian and Portuguese diplomatic missions in Johannesburg.

Such engagements form an important part of diplomatic work, allowing representatives of different countries to maintain close contact, exchange perspectives and identify areas where their respective missions can cooperate.

The meeting also underscores the importance of Johannesburg as a centre for international diplomatic and economic engagement in South Africa.

New Indian Consul General Deepens Diplomatic Engagement

Shri S. Koventhan assumed charge as Consul General of India in Johannesburg on 11 June 2026.

His previous diplomatic assignments included postings in Lisbon, Portugal; Brasília, Brazil; and Thimphu, Bhutan, where he handled areas including political, economic, commercial, consular and development cooperation matters. His experience in Portugal also adds an interesting dimension to his engagement with the Portuguese diplomatic community in Johannesburg.

Johannesburg as a Diplomatic and Economic Hub

The meeting between the Indian and Portuguese Consuls General comes against the backdrop of Johannesburg’s important role in South Africa’s international relations, business and economic activity.

Both India and Portugal maintain established diplomatic relations with South Africa, while their respective missions engage with government institutions, businesses, civil society and other diplomatic missions on matters of shared interest.

For India, Johannesburg is particularly significant as a major commercial centre and home to one of India’s key diplomatic missions in South Africa. The Indian Consulate General has also been active in promoting trade, business and people-to-people connections, including engagements with Indian companies and business organisations in the country.