India and Benin Strengthen Ties in Foreign Office Consultations

India and Benin held the third round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Cotonou on June 24-25. The two sides reviewed bilateral relations, including political, trade and economic, defence, development partnership, capacity building, and cultural relations, and discussed ways to further strengthen ties between India and Benin.

Key Participants

The Indian delegation was led by Sevala Naik Mude, Additional Secretary (Central and West Africa Division). The Beninese delegation was led by Frank Armel Afoukou, Permanent Secretary of Benin’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Discussion Highlights

During the FOC, both sides reviewed bilateral relations and discussed ways to further strengthen ties. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest and agreed to enhance cooperation in multilateral forums.

Focus on Development

The discussions focused on promoting developmental cooperation and capacity building in the spirit of South-South cooperation. Bilateral trade and Indian investment in Benin have been growing steadily, with trade reaching USD 1.34 billion during 2022-23. Around 90 Indian or Indian-owned companies are operating in Benin in fields like automobiles, textiles, and food processing.

Future Plans

The delegations agreed to hold the next consultations in New Delhi at a mutually convenient date.