India, Tanzania to cooperate in counter-terrorism, maritime security and natural gas: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India would extend its cooperation to Tanzania in various sectors, including counter-terrorism, natural gas and maritime security and added that New Delhi would shortly extend e-tourist visa scheme to the nationals of the African nation.

"Indian investments in Tanzania exceeds three billion US dollars and covers many areas....I offered our cooperation in the development of the potentially niche natural gas sector in Tanzania. We discuss cooperation in maritime sector and ocean economy. The agreement on hydrography is an important step in our cooperation in this sector," Prime Minister Modi said, in his joint statement with Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete.

"We are pleased to be partners in development of human resources, healthcare, agriculture, institutions and infrastructure in Tanzania...I have informed the Tanzanian President that we will soon extend out e-tourist visa scheme to Tanzania...We greatly appreciate Tanzania's support for India candidature for a permanent seat in an expanded UN security council," he added.

Addressing the issue of terrorism, the Prime Minister said that India and Tanzania have agreed to setup a joint working group to strengthen the cooperation in counter-terrorism.

"Terrorism in our respective regions is a concern for both countries. We have agreed to establish a joint working group to strengthen our cooperation in counter-terrorism," he said.

He further expressed delight at India being Tanzania's largest trading partner.

"We are pleased to be Tanzania's largest trading partner and a long standing development partner. I have assured President Kikwete of India's continuing commitment to the relation with Tanzania. Our trade of over four billion US dollars is heavily in India's favour. I urged President Kikwete to pan up more sectors for investments and exports," the Prime Minister said.

"We have been partners in the cause of deeper cooperation among developing countries and a greater voice for them in international forums. We have shared aspirations for inclusive economic development. We have a common interest in maritime security in the Indian Ocean and a peaceful and prosperous Africa," he added.

Prime Minister Modi also said that India and Tanzania share an emotional bond of shared history of struggle against colonialism.

Earlier in the day, Tanzania President Jakaya Kikwete was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here.

This is his second visit to India in 10 years of his leadership.