India welcomes Zambia to International Solar Alliance

India has welcomed Zambia as a member of the International Solar Alliance, with Vice President Venkaiah Naidu expressing hope for an early ratification of the Framework Agreement by Zambia.

During a meeting with a Parliamentary delegation from Zambia here on Monday, led by Patrick Matibini, the Speaker of Zambia's National Assembly, Vice President Naidu also welcomed frequent exchanges between the two parliaments and said that such interactions would be beneficial in sharing experience and learning from each other's best practices.

He further mentioned that the Indian Parliament would be happy to associate with the Zambian Parliament in any specific area, including training of its officials in the institutional or technical human resource development, according to an official press release.

"India-Zambia share warm & friendly relations based on common values such as commitment to democracy, liberty, equality and rule of law," the Vice President tweeted.

Vice President Naidu also stated, "India was one of the first countries to recognize Zambia after its independence in 1964. Our warm and friendly bilateral relations have evolved and strengthened over the years. The visit of the President of India to Zambia this year has given a fresh impetus to these ties."

He further reiterated India's commitment towards promoting renewable energy including solar technologies "to enhance incomes and to safeguard global environment".

The leaders of Zambian freedom struggle, such as Kenneth Kaunda, drew inspiration from India's struggle for freedom, particularly from the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Apart from this, India has extended lines of credit to the nation for its developmental needs, including USD 75 million for developmental projects in Zambia and a grant of USD 5 million for projects in health, education and social sectors announced during former Vice President Hamid Ansari's visit to the nation in 2010.