India and Zambia Discuss Cooperation in Lusaka
India and Zambia held their 4th Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Lusaka, focusing on various sectors of cooperation. The Indian delegation was led by Puneet R. Kundal, Additional Secretary (East and Southern Africa), and the Zambian side was headed by Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
During the FOC, both delegations reviewed the entire range of bilateral relations, including institutional mechanisms, scholarships, training, capacity building, higher education, and trade. They also discussed cooperation in defence, health, agriculture, mines, mineral resources, and small and medium enterprises.
Other topics included digital platforms, consular issues, and cultural exchanges. Both sides expressed satisfaction with their current bilateral ties and noted the need to strengthen them further. They also discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest, including cooperation in multilateral forums such as the UN.
The discussions provided an opportunity to assess the existing state of bilateral relations and explore ways to enhance them. Both India and Zambia agreed to hold the next FOC in New Delhi at a mutually convenient date.
Doubts Revealed
Lusaka -: Lusaka is the capital city of Zambia, a country in Africa. It’s like how New Delhi is the capital of India.
Foreign Office Consultations -: Foreign Office Consultations are meetings where officials from two countries discuss important topics and how they can work together. It’s like a big discussion to make friends and solve problems.
Defence -: Defence means protecting a country from attacks or dangers. It includes the army, navy, and air force.
Digital platforms -: Digital platforms are online services or websites where people can do things like talk, share information, or do business. Examples are apps like WhatsApp or websites like Amazon.
Puneet R. Kundal -: Puneet R. Kundal is an Indian government official who helps manage India’s relationships with other countries.
Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen -: Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen is a Zambian government official who helps manage Zambia’s relationships with other countries.
Bilateral relations -: Bilateral relations are the connections and cooperation between two countries. It’s like how two friends help each other and work together.
New Delhi -: New Delhi is the capital city of India. It’s where many important government buildings and officials are located.
Regional and international issues -: Regional and international issues are problems or topics that affect many countries in a specific area or the whole world. Examples include climate change or trade agreements.
