Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Nigeria, reaffirming India’s strategic partnership and highlighting humanitarian support. He engaged in bilateral discussions with President Tinubu, marking the first visit by an Indian PM in 17 years. The visit emphasizes India’s long-standing relations with Nigeria, significant investments, and the importance of the Indian community in Nigeria.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his three-nation tour with a visit to Nigeria on Sunday morning, where he emphasized India’s commitment to enhancing its strategic partnership with Nigeria. During discussions with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, PM Modi expressed optimism for a renewed chapter in their diplomatic relations, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years. He also highlighted ongoing humanitarian assistance, including 20 tonnes of relief supplies for those affected by recent floods. In his remarks, PM Modi underscored the significance of the Indian expatriate community in Nigeria, noting that they constitute the largest such group in West Africa. The Prime Minister also recognized the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 as a pivotal achievement from the recent summit in New Delhi. The strategic partnership, established during then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s visit in 2007, has evolved over six decades of diplomatic ties, with India opening its first diplomatic mission in Nigeria in 1958. There are currently over 200 Indian enterprises in Nigeria, which have collectively invested approximately $27 billion, making them the second-largest employers in the country after the government. This visit not only symbolizes India’s longstanding relations with Nigeria but also reflects a broader vision for collaboration in various sectors such as trade, investment, and humanitarian support.
The strategic partnership between India and Nigeria has its roots in over sixty years of diplomatic relations, dating back to India’s first diplomatic mission in Nigeria in 1958. The official recognition of the partnership as strategic occurred during Dr. Manmohan Singh’s visit to Nigeria in October 2007. India and Nigeria have cooperated closely in various sectors including manufacturing, energy, and trade, with Indian businesses heavily investing in Nigeria, greatly contributing to its economy. This partnership also extends to humanitarian efforts, as seen in India’s responses to natural disasters affecting Nigerians.
In conclusion, PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria underscores the importance that India places on its strategic partnership with the African nation. The discussions held during the visit not only aim to solidify existing ties but also seek to expand collaboration in opportunities for mutual benefit. The longstanding relationship, bolstered by strong economic ties and significant Indian investment, is poised for further growth in the coming years.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
