Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Highlights India-Africa Cooperation at Business Conclave

New Delhi, August 21: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized the importance of India-Africa cooperation at the 19th CII India Africa Business Conclave. The event was organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

Key Points from Vice President Dhankhar's Speech

Dhankhar highlighted that a resurgent Africa and a rising India can strengthen South-South Cooperation in areas such as clean technology, climate-resilient agriculture, maritime security, connectivity, and the green economy. He noted that the India-Africa growth partnership contributes to global rebalancing, leading to greater peace and harmony.

He reiterated that Africa is a top priority for India and that the bilateral partnership is designed to be mutually beneficial. Dhankhar also pointed out Africa's natural resources and demographic advantages, making it an attractive destination for investments and partnerships. India is committed to partnering with Africa in its quest for value addition in its industrial sectors through innovative solutions.

India's Digital Infrastructure and Public Services

Dhankhar mentioned India's progress in digital infrastructure and public services, stating that India's experience and expertise in this area would be highly relevant to Africa.

Statements from African Leaders

Prosper Bazombanza, Vice President of Burundi, praised India-Africa partnerships in pharmaceuticals, science and technology, ICT, and renewable energy, which have helped African countries improve their participation in global value chains. He welcomed Indian investments in Burundi.

Muhammad BS Jallow, Vice President of The Gambia, highlighted the potential for joint ventures between India and The Gambia in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, technology, and renewable energy.

Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice President of Liberia, noted that the trade agreement between India and Liberia has boosted bilateral trade to USD 325 million. He sought India's assistance in skills and technological advancements to enhance local production in Liberia.

Marie Cyril Eddy Boissezon, Vice President of Mauritius, emphasized the strong relationship between India and Mauritius. She mentioned that the trade agreement signed on April 1, 2021, has increased bilateral trade and investments. Mauritius is the first African country to adopt UPI for financial transactions.

Gen (Retd) CGDN Chiwenga, Vice President of Zimbabwe, spoke about the business opportunities created by the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the growing African regional economy. He invited Indian investments in manufacturing, agriculture, agro-processing, tourism development, and infotech.

Remarks from Indian Industry Leaders

Sanjiv Puri, President of CII, proposed deeper India-Africa collaboration in agro-processing, healthcare, infrastructure, and education, leveraging the AfCFTA to enhance the partnership. Noel Tata, Chairman of the CII Africa Committee, focused on fostering partnerships between SMEs from both regions and bridging gaps in the banking and finance sectors through solutions like rupee trade.

Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General of CII, mentioned that the Conclave saw overwhelming participation from both India and Africa, with over 1,000 delegates from Africa and over 800 from India. Forty senior ministers from 20 African countries participated, and over 850 business-to-business meetings were arranged.