During the recent official visit to India of the President of Tanzania H.E. Jakya Kikwete, 6 Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) where signed between the two countries to strengthen cooperation in a number of fields including hydrocarbons, tourism and agriculture.
The 6 signed MOUs are:
1. MOU between the East Africa Statistical Training Center (EASTC) in Tanzania and the National Statistical System Training Academy (NSSTA) in India on establishing a collaborative program in official statistics and capacity building for staff of EASTC and other African countries in official statistics.
2. MOU between EASTC and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute (IASRI) for capacity building for staff of EASTC and other African countries in agricultural statistics, computer applications and bio-informatics.
3. MOU on cooperation in the field of tourism to enhance bilateral cooperation in tourism and hospitality sectors.
4. Loan agreement between Exim Bank and Government of Tanzania of USD 268.35 million for extension of Lake Victoria pipeline project.
5. Agreement between Water and Power Consultancy Services (WAPCOS) of India and the Government of Tanzania for preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Lake Victoria pipeline project.
6. MOU for Cooperation in the field of hydrography between Tanzania and India on exchange of hydrographic data to promote development and cooperation in the field of hydrography through conducting surveys, exchange of data, capacity building and infrastructure strengthening.
The Tanzanian delegation lead by President Kikwete included, among others, the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Dr. Mahadhi Juma Maalim, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism Dr. Adelhelm Meru and the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance Ms.Dorothy Mwanyika.
President Kikwete and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a joint press statement about the agreements signed.
In his speech President Kikwete stated “We should take our relation to the next level, and that level is increased trade and investment between India and Tanzania. India can invest more in Tanzania. India can sell more to Tanzania and Tanzania can sell more to India.”
From his side Prime Minister Modi commented that “Indian investment in Tanzania exceeds USD 3 billion and cover many areas. I urge President Kikwete to open up more sectors for investments and exports. Tanzania is an important part of India-Africa partnership. Our relations with Africa and Tanzania will continue to grow.”
Trade between India and Tanzania amounted to USD 31 billion in 2009–2010 and India is Tanzania’s second-largest investor.
