India-Africa Forum Summit a reflection of desire to engage more intensively, says PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Saturday that the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) in New Delhi is a reflection of New Delhi and the African continent's desire to engage more intensively in the quest for a better future.

He hoped that as minds meet and hands work together, the summit could emerge as a landmark event in the journey towards further cementing ties.

Modi said, India has invited leaders from all 54 African countries and the African Union, and the level of engagement for the summit has been scaled up significantly.

The four-day India Africa Forum Summit will be held in the national capital from October 26.

Indian investments in Africa are close to 30 billion dollars, and have contributed immensely to job creation in Africa. Trade between India and African countries is an estimated 70 billion dollars.

In the run up to Summit, many side events are being organised. Trade Ministers of India and Africa, accompanied by business delegations, will meet on October 23.

A business exhibition will be organised at the summit venue by leading Indian chambers of commerce and industry between October 27 and 29.

Over 16,000 schools are participating in various competitions organised by CBSE on themes related to India-Africa cooperation.

Briefing media in New Delhi yesterday, Secretary (West) in the External Affairs Ministry, Navtej Sarna said, the summit will provide a forum for India and Africa to discuss trade and investment.

Array

Sarna said, India and Heads of the African countries will also share concern over the growing terrorism and defence co-operation as well as ways to take blue water economy forward.