Faridabad, Feb 13 (NationPress) From the sacred and culturally vibrant land of Surajkund, Haryana's Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced the dawn of a new era in India-Africa relations. On Friday, he engaged in discussions with Ambassadors and High Commissioners from 21 African nations focused on economic collaboration.

During the Haryana-Africa Strategic Partnership Meeting held in Surajkund, the officials explored the potential for collaboration between Haryana and various African nations in sectors such as industry, trade, investment, and technology, as stated by the state government.

In his remarks, CM Saini emphasized that the Surajkund International Crafts Mela serves as a global platform for showcasing folk traditions, handicrafts, and creativity, which bolster cultural ties and economic cooperation.

He further articulated that the foundation of India-Africa relations is based on equality, mutual respect, and shared development.

In alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, Haryana aims to foster long-lasting and robust relationships with African countries.

Haryana is the pioneering state to establish a dedicated Department of Foreign Cooperation to enhance international ties, he noted.

The Chief Minister highlighted Haryana's rapid emergence as a vital hub in agriculture, manufacturing, MSMEs, food processing, and automobile components.

Thanks to its connectivity with the National Capital Region, the state offers exceptional logistical advantages, paving the way for extensive multi-sectoral cooperation with African nations.

Pointing out agriculture as a crucial area for collaboration, he mentioned Haryana's expertise in irrigation management, crop diversification, and post-harvest management which can enhance food security in African nations.

He also discussed potential joint farming initiatives, training programs, and technical collaborations with countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Rwanda.

“Agreements established with the Tanzania Investment Centre and other agricultural entities will facilitate trade, investment, and agricultural cooperation,” he added.

CM Saini identified significant opportunities for collaboration in sectors such as automobiles, healthcare, IT, construction, and skill development.

He described renewable energy, water conservation, and green development as collective moral obligations, asserting that collaborative efforts in solar energy, water management, and environmental sustainability are vital for future generations.

Haryana's Industry and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh remarked that this presents a valuable opportunity to enhance trade relations between India and Africa.

In recent years, bilateral trade between India and Africa has surged to nearly $90-100 billion, signifying a strong economic partnership.

He noted that India primarily imports crude oil, gold, coal, fertilizers, and minerals from Africa, while exporting petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and engineering goods.

This trade is not only limited to physical goods but is also growing in sectors like education, healthcare, IT, and capacity building.