PM holds talks with African leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held talks with heads of several African nations during which reforms of the United Nations (UN), combating terrorism and boosting trade and investment - particularly in the oil and gas sector - figured prominently.

The African leaders appreciated India's development projects in the continent and sought deepening of ties in diverse sectors, including healthcare, education and capacity building.In his meeting, South African President Jacob Zuma called for reform in the global governance system and said the UN structure, which was set up after World War II, cannot remain relevant in the 21st century.He said it was important that like-minded countries come together to ensure reform of the UN, particularly the UN Security Council, observing that many conflicts - including the Syrian crisis - could not be resolved because of veto powers of UNSC member countries, sources in the Ministry of External Affairs said.

The heads of state of African countries are here to participate in the India Africa Forum Summit on Thursday.

There was a detailed discussion between Zuma and Modi on ways to tackle terrorism, with both stressing the need for a concrete strategy.

Zuma said African countries coming together with India showed the world that they are no longer dependent on the former colonial powers.

The prime minister also met Robert Mugabe, President of Zimbabwe, and Chairman of African Union.

Mugabe is the co-chair for the Summit, and the two leaders reviewed preparations for it.

Modi also met President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana, and both sides reviewed the "warm" bilateral ties.

Growing bilateral trade came up for discussion and both leaders stressed the need to step up engagement in sectors like agriculture, Information Technology, skill development, cyber security and maritime security.

The prime minister then met Mswati III, king of Swaziland. The king spoke of his vision for his country's development, including areas such as infrastructure, renewable energy and skill development and sought India's assistance.

Modi also met Boni Yayi, President of Beni and both the leaders deliberated on growing economic relationship between the two countries, particularly in agricultural, power generation, water supply and transportation.

In the meeting between Modi and Muhammadu Buhari, President of Nigeria, issues relating to India's oil exploration projects in that country were discussed.

During the meeting with Uhuru Kenyatta, president of Kenya, discussions centred on cooperation in areas like healthcare, infrastructure and trade and economic relations, apart from mention of the large Indian diaspora in Kenya.

Kannan's retirement is due next July.