Mauritius Vice President Marie Cyril Eddy Boissezon arrived in New Delhi on Monday to attend the 19th CII India-Africa Business Conclave. Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), warmly welcomed him and noted that the visit represents another important step in the “time-tested and enduring ties” between the two countries.
In a post on X, Randhir Jaiswal stated, “Welcome to India! VP Marie Cyril Eddy Boissezon of Mauritius arrives in New Delhi to participate in the 19th CII India-Africa Business Conclave! The visit marks another significant milestone in the time-tested & enduring India – Mauritius ties.”
The 19th CII India-Africa Business Conclave will take place in New Delhi from August 20-22. This edition of the conclave aims to promote Africa’s growth and highlight the role of the India-Africa partnership in integrating regional and global value chains.
India continues to be the fastest-growing major economy, driven by favourable demographics, improving institutional strength, and better governance. As of the finance ministry’s January 2024 economic review, India is the fifth largest economy, with an estimated GDP of $3.7 trillion for FY24, despite challenges from the pandemic and past macroeconomic imbalances and financial sector issues.
In June, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar remarked that Africa is experiencing rapid transformations, evolving from the cradle of human civilisation to a land of future opportunities. He emphasised that India views Africa as a ‘natural partner’ based on trust and mutual respect.
During his speech at the Africa Day celebrations in the national capital, Jaishankar highlighted that India-Africa relations are “deep-rooted,” and emphasised that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has redefined India’s approach to engagement with Africa.
“Africa, we all know, is today undergoing very rapid changes. These span the range from being the cradle of human civilisation to becoming the land of the future. It is a continent with the youngest demographies, one with vast natural resources, expanding capabilities, growing markets and most of all, rising ambitions,” Jaishankar had said.
“India, the most populous country in the world and currently the fifth largest economy, looks at Africa as a natural partner. Anchored in trust and mutual respect, it is focused now on value addition within Africa, with production, research, localisation and local employment,” he added.