India, SADC Countries To Strengthen Economic Ties, Focus On SME Growth

New Delhi, Jun 12 (KNN) Amar Singh Thakur, Chairman, India SADC Trade Council, convened a fruitful meeting with the High Commissioners of Namibia, Lesotho, and other representatives from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries.

The primary objective of this gathering was to explore the launch of business initiatives in South India, specifically targeting the SADC region.

Thakur emphasised that the forthcoming delegations he will lead in the coming months will focus on ‘The Contribution of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to Healthy Trade Systems and Sustainable Livelihoods in SADC countries.’

These meetings were held in conjunction with the SADC gathering at the Federation of Indian Exporters Organisation (FIEO), where bridging the gap between smaller enterprises and the India Africa Trade Council was a key priority.

Emphasising the significance of this visit, Thakur stated that it coincides with the global celebration of MSME Day, marking a significant milestone in the realm of the SME sector within the South African region.

He commended the SADC Secretariat for their dedication to strengthening relations with India and Namibia.

Additionally, a recent delegation visited Malawi, another SADC country, where they met with the President and various Cabinet ministers, leading to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the First Capital Bank in Malawi.

His Excellency Gabriel, the High Commissioner of Namibia, underscored that the relations between India and Namibia, facilitated through the India Namibia Trade Commission, serve as a living and successful example, expected to be a critical resource and guiding tool for policymakers, development partners, and stakeholders in crafting policies and programs that bolster the development of such bilateral relations.

He emphasised the need for developing action plans to implement recommendations emanating from the visit, driving the regional agenda of the MSME sector.

During his leadership over the past three years, nine Indian delegations have visited Namibia, initiating successful collaborations.

Dr. Asif Iqbal, President, Indian Economic Trade Organisation, highlighted that participation, engagement, and an ecosystem approach to the MSME sector are key tools for cross-sectoral coordination between middle-income groups and their Namibian counterparts.

He emphasised that fostering a collaborative approach and inclusivity in the sustainable support of SME guidelines and decision-making can ultimately contribute to the overall business development and sustainable trade systems of the MSME value chain.

This initiative aims to support other SADC member states in closing some of the gaps identified in MSME collaborations with Indian companies.

In conclusion, this diplomatic endeavour showcases the unwavering commitment of both India and the SADC countries to strengthen economic ties, foster sustainable development, and empower small and medium enterprises as catalysts for regional growth and prosperity.

(KNN Bureau)