From diamond trading to uranium to oil and natural resources, African nations have given India a vast array of offers during their bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday and Friday.
In return, they sought India’s help in developing their rail network, healthcare infrastructure and educational institutes and collaboration in agriculture sector. The African countries also sought deep co-operation in Defence and counter-terrorism which included information sharing and capacity building. The PM invited the African leaders to join the solar alliance which he plans to propose at the Summit in Paris in December.
On the sidelines of the India-Africa Summit, Modi held meetings with all 41 Heads of States and Heads of the Governments. Among these were 27 Presidents, five Vice-Presidents, six Prime Ministers, two Kings and one chairperson of African Union Commission. On Friday, the PM met, 12 African leaders for bilateral talks.
With rich diamond mines, Botswana and Angola have offered India diamonds at concessional rates. During his talks with Vice-President of Angola Manuel Domingos Vicente, the PM sought direct access to diamonds for Indian traders, which they get from a third party for cutting and polishing work in India. India, which at present is one of the major buyers of oil, has expressed desire to be partners. Morrocco and Tunisia have offered phosphate to India while Niger and Namibia have shown interest in selling uranium.
While saying Al-Shabab is on a retreat in the region, Somalian President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud, lauded Indian Navy’s support in anti-piracy operations and sought support in capacity building in maritime security. Egypt too wanted better co-operation with India on counter terrorism issues.
President of Mali Ibrahim Boubacar Keita expressed desire to come back for a full bilateral talks with India again. While inviting Modi to Mali, President Keita promised to take the PM to show Timbuktu, a historic city which is on the radar of terrorists. To give a boost to diplomatic ties with India, Islamic Republic of Mauritania will be opening an embassy in New Delhi soon.
