Lauding India's role in his country's development Edgar Chagwa Lungu says, India is an important and strategic partner in Zambia's enhanced quest for socio-economic development
Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu was accorded a ceremonial reception in the presence of his Indian counterpart Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi upon his arrival at the Rashtrapati Bhawan here on Wednesday.
Lungu is on a three-day visit to India on the invitation of President Kovind. This is the first visit at the level of head of state from Africa since the Narendra Modi-led government took office for a second term in May.
Six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged between India and Zambia on Wednesday during the visit of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu to India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in his press statement that Indian military will be training Zambian armed forces while the President of Zambia Edgar Chagwa Lungu is on a 3-day visit to India. The initiative was taken by the Prime Minister in an effort to grow its defence engagement with African countries.
"To increase the capacity of Zambian armed forces, Indian military and airforce training team will be station in Zambia," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. India will also provide 100 solar irrigation pumps, 1000 tons of rice and 100 tons of milk powder to the southern African country.
Lauding India's role in his country's development Edgar Chagwa Lungu said, "India is an important and strategic partner in Zambia's enhanced quest for socio-economic development".
Speaking about the relations between the two countries, PM Modi said, "The relation of India and Zambia is older than the independence of Zambia. It is a significant friend and trustworthy partner of India. We believe in the same democratic values and the joint ambitions for development connect the two countries."
President Kovind had paid a visit to the southern African country in April of 2018. Bilateral trade between India and Zambia stands at $ 830 million dollars with India importing copper from the country. Zambia is the second-largest producer of copper in Africa.
With $5 billion investment, India is one of the leading investors in the country.
Zee Media Newsroom
(With inputs from Agencies)
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 "President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu")
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