Thaindian News

New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) President Pranab Mukherjhee Tuesday said India’s developmental experience in energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and other fields is suited to generate employment for youth and could be of relevance to Burundi’s socio-economic growth.

“India’s developmental experience in energy, agriculture, infrastructure, minerals and small scale industries is suited to generate employment for the youth and could be of relevance to Burundi’s socio-economic growth,” said the president at a banquet he hosted in honour of visiting Burundi President Pierre Nkurunziza and his wife Denise Bucumi Nkurunziza.

The president said since the opening of Burundi’s embassy in Delhi in 2009, there has been a significant expansion of bilateral agenda between the two countries.

“We look forward to working together with you towards realising its full potential,” he said.

“We are confident that in your drive against poverty and underdevelopment, you will accomplish the goals that you seek. India stands ready and willing to join hands with the people of Burundi in pursuing their aspirations for development and growth,” he said.

According to President Mukherjee, there is great potential to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment between the two countries.

“New areas of economic co-operation and investment are opening up. These need to be pursued systematically to the mutual benefit of our peoples,” he said.

Noting Burundi is passing through a critical period of its transit from political emancipation to economic development, the president said it coincides with India’s own recalibration and re-vitalisation of its policies towards Africa.

Acknowledging the growing role of Burindi in the regional affairs of Africa, the president said the African nation has been actively engaged in achieving peace and stability in Somalia and other places.

“Your contribution to peace-keeping in Darfur, in Chad and in the Central African Republic has been generous,” he said.

He said India and Burundi have been working together in various international fora including the United Nations and Non-Aligned Movement.

“We share a common commitment to pluralism, inclusiveness and creation of an equitable world order. We are confident that you will support our endeavours in the reform of the UN. We welcome your support for our candidature for permanent membership of an expanded UN Security Council,” said President Mukherjee.