India hails Zim relations

Ellah Mukwati Herald Reporter
India has hailed its relations with Zimbabwe saying it has been working towards the development of the country.

Indian Ambassador Surinder Datta said this yesterday during the 67th anniversary commemorations and flag hoisting ceremony held at the Indian embassy.

“There have been a lot of visits between the two countries. The trade between the two countries is increasing, there is a lot of scope to increase the trade factor and the Indian government is actively engaged in capacity building of Zimbabwe in the poverty reduction sector. There are many projects being done for Zimbabwe by India,,” he said.

“When this country was occupied by the British, our people came from Mozambique, South Africa and fought hand in hand with the locals against the British empire. Many Indians were put in prisons during that time and that made our relations stronger.”

Mr Datta said India had set aside $420 million in African countries to set up income generating projects.

Every year more than 200 Zimbabweans get a chance to study and work in India.

Indian public sector companies like Indian Railway Construction Company (IRCON) ,Rail India Technical and Economic Services (RITES), Water and Power Consultancy Services (WAPCOS) and Telecommunications India Ltd (ICIL) are doing business in Zimbabwe.

India has also a strong presence in the pharmaceutical sector in Zimbabwe and Indian medicines are readily available on the local market.