THE government has assured India of its commitment to enhancing bilateral relations across various sectors, including trade, in order to boost foreign exchange and create additional investment opportunities for mutual benefit.

Dr Damas Ndumbaro, Minister of Culture, Arts and Sports, made the statement in Dar es Salaam at the weekend during the celebrations to mark India’s 78th Independence Day held at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC).

The event was attended by various envoys representing their countries in Tanzania, Members of Parliament, leaders from various institutions and members of the Indian diaspora.

Dr Ndumbaro said that India remains a crucial trade partner for Tanzania, with trade volumes between the countries having risen significantly.

The minister commended the Indian government for its ongoing support to Tanzania in sectors such as water and education.

He highlighted a notable project from 2022, where six Indian companies signed a contract for a $5 million, a water development initiative, set to provide clean and safe water to over four million people upon completion.

Bishwadip Dey, Indian High Commissioner to Tanzania, said that  bilateral relations have reached a significant milestone, further strengthened by President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s visit to India in October, last year.

He noted that trade between the countries has surged, with trade volume reaching $7.9 billion in 2023, according to available statistics.

Dey also mentioned the visit of three Indian naval ships to Tanzania this year, which participated in joint naval exercises with the Tanzanian Navy, underscoring the robust nature of security partnership.

Reflecting on India’s Independence Day, Dey said: “India gained independence on August 15, 1947, and has since made remarkable progress in various sectors. Today, India is the world’s fifth-largest economy and one of the fastest-growing.”

He added that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, India aims to become a developed nation by 2047 and is committed to empowering its citizens to achieve self-reliance.

Dey further praised Tanzania for its stunning landscapes, numerous national parks, pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.

He revealed plans to make the High Commission more accessible to Tanzanians outside Dar es Salaam by conducting at least six diplomatic camps across the country each year.

Dey said that the increased partnership has made Tanzania its second-largest commercial partner in Africa this year, up from third place last year.

The first diplomatic camp will be held in Tanga Region in September, followed by Mbeya Region in November, Arusha Region in January 2025, Mwanza Region in March, Dodoma Region in May, Morogoro Region in July, and Shinyanga Region in September 2025.