THE government of Zanzibar has described the establishment of Indian Institute of Technology–Madras (IIT–Madras) branch in the isles as one of major achievements in its ongoing diplomatic collaboration with India.

Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi made the remarks yesterday at a meeting with High Commissioner of India to Tanzania Bishwadip Dey when the latter paid a courtesy call to State House Zanzibar.

He said that IIT Madras represents a significant advancement for Zanzibar’s education sector, noting that the new branch will introduce major reforms and enhance technological development in the region.

Dr Mwinyi assured the envoy of Zanzibar’s strong commitment to working closely with the college and the government of India to further strengthen diplomatic ties.

He acknowledged India’s longstanding partnership with Zanzibar in various sectors, including water projects, health, and education, expressing his hope that India would leverage its technological expertise and social media capabilities to promote Zanzibar internationally, particularly in the business and investment arenas.

He also highlighted the benefits that health and education sectors have gained from the India-Zanzibar collaboration, saying many Tanzanians continue to seek medical treatment in India, and there is a strong exchange of students and ongoing business interactions between the two countries.

On tourism, President Mwinyi encouraged the High Commissioner to explore ways to increase the influx of Indian tourists.

He pointed out that while Zanzibar attracts many visitors from Eastern Europe and other regions, there is potential to attract tourists from India.

In his remarks, Dey assured President Mwinyi of India’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, particularly in business, economics, tourism and investment.

He also pledged to facilitate visits from major Indian entrepreneurs interested in investing in Zanzibar and Tanzania.

The IIT Madras branch in Zanzibar, which was established in October of the previous year, is expected to bring transformative changes to the local education landscape by providing advanced technological learning opportunities for residents.

The diplomatic relationship between Tanzania and India has a rich history, with India opening its High Commission in Dar es Salaam in November 1962 and a consulate in Zanzibar in 1974. The bilateral ties have continued to flourish, offering numerous opportunities for trade and development.