New Delhi
Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday emphasized India’s long -term commitment to form mutually beneficial partnership with Africa and Japan. Speaking at Japan-India-Africa Business Forum, he emphasized that India and Japan are in ‘good conditions’ to support the sustainable and inclusive development of Africa.
The Foreign Minister said that India’s association with Africa is based on long -term, permanent partnership. He said, “India’s approach to Africa has always been inspired by deep commitment to create a long -term mutually beneficial partnership. Unlike exploitative models, India believes in capacity building, skill development and technology transfer and wants the African countries not only benefit from investment, but can achieve self -sufficient development. ”
Jaishankar pointed to major initiatives such as Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, PAN African e-Network Project and High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP), which strengthened Africa’s education, healthcare and digital infrastructure.
In 2019, India launched E-Vidya Bharti and E-Arogya Bharti Network to provide virtual education and medical services to African countries. So far, students from 19 African countries have enrolled in various undergraduate, postgraduate and diploma courses under this initiative. Jaishankar highlighted India’s position as Africa’s fourth largest trading partner, with bilateral trade to about $ 100 billion.
Jaishankar underlined India’s ability to work as an ideal center for Japanese companies wishing to expand in Africa and Middle East. He said, “Japanese investment, India’s strong industrial base, digital capabilities, Africa’s talent and growing consumer base can come together to make beneficial results for all stakeholders.”
The Foreign Minister said, “India and Japan share a relationship based on democracy, freedom and rule of law, as well as have a similar approach to an independent and open Hind-Pacific. Over the years, our bilateral ties have evolved into a special strategic and global partnership. ”