India-Africa Forum Summit to provide unique platform: Sitharaman

New Delhi: Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the upcoming India- Africa Forum Summit would provide a unique platform for India and African countries to identify areas of cooperation and enhancing the partnership. Speaking at the 4th India- Africa Trade Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi, Ms Sitharaman said, cooperation in Trade, Technology and Capacity Building form the basis of relationship between them.

She said, greater cooperation in agriculture, engineering, textiles, leather and pharmaceuticals will have a positive bearing on the food security, improvement in health situation and creation of



additional jobs in both Africa and India. Ms Sitharaman said, India looks Africa as a natural partner and together they have a positive influence on the future global economic order. Noting that India and Africa face similar challenges and concerns, she said, the world economy offers tremendous opportunities to these two Fastest Growing Regions.

During the meeting, the Commerce Minister highlighted that value addition is the key to development and enhancing livelihood opportunities for people. She said, India would endeavour to share its experience and expertise in partnering with African countries, which have potential for value addition.