Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has said that a resurgent Africa and a rising India can give impetus to South-South Cooperation. Addressing the inaugural session of the 19th CII India Africa Business Conclave in New Delhi today, Mr. Dhankhar said there is immense opportunity for India-Africa cooperation in the fields of clean technology, climate resilient agriculture, maritime security, connectivity, and blue economy. He said India is advancing its space sector cooperation with Africa and has seen significant digitisation across various sectors. The Vice President said India also provides capacity-building, training, and educational opportunities, reflecting its commitment to the African Union’s priorities. He said India is Africa’s fourth-largest trading partner, and as the largest democracy and a dynamic country, India has built and nurtured a robust relationship with Africa. Mr. Dhankhar said the inclusion of the African Union during India’s G20 presidency was a moment of pride for India and an important geopolitical development. He said the theme of this India-Africa Business Conclave, ‘Creating One Future,’ is deeply embedded in Indian civilisational ethos and is amplified in the motto of India’s G20 presidency, which stands for ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future.

Mr. Dhankhar said the conclave is an opportunity to come together, deliberate on contemporary and relevant themes, and synergise the efforts towards creating a common future for the well-being of all. Vice President of Zimbabwe Dr. C.G.D.N. Chiwenga said a strong vision is key to deepening India-Africa relations. He said Africa has provided abundant investment opportunities for India, and by investing in and partnering with African enterprises, Indian companies can expand their global footprint. Mr. Chiwenga said a combination of India’s technological prowess and Africa’s rich mineral resources can lead to mutual and beneficial collaboration. Vice President of Mauritius Marie Cyril Eddy Boissézon said Mauritius is the first African country to adopt India’s UPI system and the first non-Asian country to issue RuPay cards, enabling both Indian and African tourism. He said India-Mauritius bilateral ties also cover sectors related to agriculture, education, maritime security, and peacekeeping, among others. Mr. Boissézon said Mauritius and India are closely connected both geographically and economically, and the future focus will be on sustainability and food safety. Vice President of Liberia Jeremiah Kpan Koung said Liberia is open and ready for investment, especially in the hydro projects and various other initiatives. He said the African Nation is eager to collaborate with global partners to drive mutual growth and innovation and to build a prosperous future. Vice President of Gambia Muhammad B.S. Jallow said both sides are ready to explore innovative ideas and trade opportunities. He said Gambia is open for business, eager to promote new trade opportunities and create impactful joint ventures together.