Development of Bilateral Relations
Relations between Burundi and India have evolved significantly, particularly since the East African Community lifted its sanctions against Burundi and welcomed the country into the organization in May 2007. This pivotal moment set the stage for enhanced diplomatic engagement, leading to the establishment of Burundi's embassy in New Delhi in 2009. By 2010, the country appointed its first resident ambassador to India, signifying a deeper commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. Meanwhile, India maintains a High Commission in Kampala, which is also responsible for diplomatic relations with Burundi, reflecting the interconnectedness of regional diplomacy.
Diplomatic Engagements
The relationship has been characterized by a series of high-profile diplomatic visits, showcasing the willingness of both nations to foster closer ties. Notably, Burundian Defence Minister Germain Niyoyankana visited India in May 2006, marking one of the early engagements before formal diplomatic relations were solidified. In October of the same year, Burundi's Second Vice-President Marine Barampama attended the CII-EXIM Bank Conclave on India-Africa Partnership, emphasizing Burundi's interest in enhancing cooperation with India. Following these visits, Burundi's Foreign Minister Augustin Nsanze represented his country at significant summits in India, including the CII-Exim Bank India-Africa Partnership Summit in March 2010.
The visit of Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza to India in September 2012 further cemented the relationship. During this visit, both countries signed crucial agreements focusing on cooperation in various sectors, such as rural development, education, health, and medicine. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh underscored India's commitment to infrastructure development in Burundi, proving India's interest in supporting Burundi's growth. Nkurunziza had previously sought medical treatment in India in 2010, highlighting personal links alongside diplomatic ties. Subsequent engagements saw Second Vice President Gervais Rufyikiri lead a business delegation to the 9th CII Exim Bank Conclave in New Delhi in March 2013, indicating the increasing commercial interest between the two nations.
High-Level Visits from India
From the Indian side, visits to Burundi have been conducted primarily at the ministerial level. The first Indian minister to visit Burundi was Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur in February 2012. This visit marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations as Kaur met with high-ranking officials, including the President and Foreign Minister, to sign a General Cooperation Agreement. Additionally, an accompanying Indian business delegation engaged with Burundian entrepreneurs, fostering economic ties. In July 2015, Minister of State for Rural Development Sudarshan Bhagat made a visit to Burundi as the Prime Minister's Special Envoy, thereby reinforcing India’s interest in promoting rural development initiatives in the country.
Continued Support and Future Prospects
Burundi has expressed its support for India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, highlighting the mutual respect and alignment of diplomatic interests between the two nations. This endorsement not only reflects Burundi's commitment to strengthening its relationship with India but also underscores a willingness to collaborate on international platforms. As both countries navigate a rapidly changing global landscape, there is potential for further expansion of their diplomatic, economic, and cultural engagements, fostering a robust partnership that benefits both nations in the long run.
Trade Relations
India has established itself as a significant trading partner for Burundi, particularly noted as the second largest source of imports to the country in 2015. The bilateral trade between the two nations was valued at approximately US$30.89 million in the fiscal year 2013-14. During this period, India primarily exported goods with a total value of $30.71 million to Burundi, while imports were considerably lower at $180,000. The export portfolio from India includes essential commodities such as pharmaceuticals and chemicals, machinery and instruments, as well as plastic and linoleum products. Additionally, transport equipment and rubber manufactured products also form a critical part of this trade relationship. On the flip side, Burundi's exports to India are mainly centered on non-electrical machinery alongside iron and steel.
Investment Overview
By August 2015, Indian entities had made significant investments exceeding $20 million in Burundi, reflecting a robust interest in various sectors within the nation. Numerous companies operated by Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin (PIO) have set up their bases in Burundi, contributing to the local economy and workforce. Enterprises such as Angelique International Ltd focus on the power sector, while Jain Irrigation Systems specializes in irrigation technologies. Lucky Exports Ltd is actively involved in trading agro-based commodities and minerals, whereas Akagera Business Group has diversified operations across sectors. Furthermore, Indian automotive manufacturers like Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor Company have penetrated the market by retailing motorbikes and auto-rickshaws through local dealers, thereby enhancing mobility options within the country.
Role of Indian-Owned Companies
One prominent PIO-owned entity, Contec Global Burundi, has secured the role of authorized printer for critical government documents such as passports and visa stickers, contributing to state governance stability. Such initiatives not only highlight the entrepreneurial engagement of Indians in Burundi but also demonstrate the growing economic ties between the two countries. The presence of Indian businesses illustrates a mutual interest in fostering a positive bilateral economic climate, which is essential for long-term collaboration.
Duty Free Tariff Preference Scheme
To further enhance trade relations, India has extended the Duty Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme to Burundi, aligning with its commitment to support Least Developed Countries (LDCs). This initiative underscores India's dedication to promoting economic growth in Burundi by facilitating easier access to Indian markets for Burundian goods. Such trade policies are instrumental in nurturing and deepening the economic links between the two nations, ultimately benefiting both economies by fostering a more integrated trading environment.
Cultural Exchange and Education
Cultural relations between Burundi and India have strengthened significantly in recent years, leading to a noticeable increase in Burundian nationals seeking educational opportunities and medical care in India. The period from 2012 to 2014 was particularly prolific, with the Indian High Commission in Kampala issuing a total of 447 student visas to Burundian citizens. This influx showcases the appeal of India's diverse educational institutions and the quality of academic programs available, which attract many Burundians aiming to enhance their skills and knowledge in various fields.
In addition to educational pursuits, there is a substantial number of Burundians who travel to India for medical treatment. In 2014 alone, the Indian authorities granted 205 medical visas to Burundian patients. The health sector in India is renowned for its advanced medical facilities and expertise, particularly in areas such as surgery, oncology, and cardiology. This has made India a popular destination for those seeking high-quality medical care, and it reflects a growing trend among African nations to turn to India for healthcare solutions.
Indian Diaspora in Burundi
As of August 2015, approximately 450 Indian citizens and individuals of Indian origin were residing in Burundi. This community predominantly comprises traders and businessmen who play a significant role in the local economy. The presence of Indian entrepreneurs not only facilitates trade and commerce between the two nations but also contributes to the development of various sectors within Burundi’s economy. Their entrepreneurial ventures range from retail to agriculture, and they often engage in knowledge transfer that benefits local businesses and the workforce.
The interactions between India and Burundi go beyond just trade; they encompass cultural exchanges that enrich both societies. The blending of traditions, cuisines, and languages can be observed, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration. The ongoing engagements and partnerships underscore the commitment of both nations to enhance their bilateral relations, paving the way for further cooperation in various fields such as technology, agriculture, and infrastructure development. Each visit, investment, and cultural exchange strengthens the bond between the two countries, highlighting the importance of nurturing these ties for a prosperous future.
Foreign Aid and Development Initiatives
India has made significant strides in fostering development in Burundi through various foreign aid initiatives. One of the cornerstone contributions includes a $4.22 million line of credit allocated for a farm mechanization project aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity. Additionally, India has set aside $0.17 million to support the design of an Integrated Food Processing Complex, reflecting a commitment to bolster Burundi's agricultural sector. Notably, in May 2011, an agreement was reached with the EXIM Bank of India for an $80 million Line of Credit (LOC) to fund the development of a 30MW hydroelectric power project at Kabu, which is expected to provide essential energy resources to the nation.
The establishment of an India-Africa Vocational Training Centre (VTC) in Burundi stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between the two nations. The African Union designated Burundi for this initiative during the inaugural India-Africa Forum Summit in 2008. Following its completion in April 2014, the VTC opened avenues for training Burundians, particularly in technical and operational skills. Furthermore, India initiated the creation of the India-Africa Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (IAIEPA) as part of its commitments at the Summit, which commenced operations in 2015 to enhance educational planning and administration across the continent.
Other key initiatives include a pledge to establish a cluster bio-mass gasifier system, aiming to promote sustainable energy solutions. India also proposed the creation of a Farm Science Centre, inspired by innovative practices from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. Moreover, under the Pan African e-network project, tele-medicine and tele-education centers were successfully set up in Burundi in 2010, facilitating healthcare consultations between Burundian doctors and specialists in India, thereby improving access to medical expertise and education.
The response of the Indian Government during challenging times in Burundi showcases its commitment to humanitarian assistance. In 2010, India donated medicines worth nearly $440,000 for refugees and lent $100,000 to support the Burundian Permanent Mission in New York after a market fire caused financial turmoil. Further, in February 2014, India provided another $100,000 in relief aid following severe flooding in Burundi.
Educational opportunities under various Indian programs have opened doors for Burundian citizens, who can now benefit from scholarships through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. These initiatives encompass fully funded scholarships at various academic levels, including undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate, and research courses in India, as well as short-term training programs, thus paving the way for capacity building and enhancing human resources in Burundi. Through these various avenues of support, India continues to strengthen its partnership with Burundi and contribute towards the nation's growth and development.