Diplomatic Relations
Comoros and India established diplomatic relations in June 1976, marking a significant milestone shortly after Comoros declared its independence from colonial rule. This relationship has flourished over the years, promoting cooperation in various fields, including politics, trade, and cultural exchanges. Notably, Comoros became the 20th member of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) on November 2, 2012, during a meeting in Gurgaon, India. This membership highlighted Comoros's commitment to regional collaboration and development, alongside India, which played a pivotal role as a founding member of the association.
High-Level Visits
The diplomatic relationship between the two nations has been strengthened through numerous high-level visits. In August 2004, Comorian Minister of External Relations & Cooperation Souef Mohamed El-Amine visited India, marking the first visit by a Comorian minister to the country. This visit was significant in setting the stage for future diplomatic engagements. Furthermore, in November 2007, the then-President of Comoros, Ahmed Abdullah Mohamed Sambi, visited India to enhance bilateral ties. During this period, key discussions were held regarding various forms of cooperation, including economic and environmental initiatives.
In October 2015, President Ikililou Dhoinine represented Comoros at the third India-Africa Forum Summit in New Delhi. This summit was crucial as it allowed for greater engagement between India and African nations. On October 29, Dhoinine held bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who extended an invitation for Comoros to join the International Solar Alliance, emphasizing renewable energy cooperation.
Indian Engagement and Support
India's engagement with Comoros has been marked by reciprocal visits, with Comoros hosting several Indian officials as well. Notably, Gurjit Singh, the Additional Secretary (Africa) in the Ministry of External Affairs, became the first Indian government official to visit Comoros in May 2011. During this visit, India pledged a soft loan of US$35 million for development projects of Comoros's choice, demonstrating India's commitment to support the island nation in its development endeavors.
Furthermore, in August 2015, Minister of State for Science and Technology Y.S. Chowdary visited Comoros as the Prime Minister's Special Envoy. This visit allowed for an exchange of technological expertise and cooperation in science and technology between the two nations, highlighting the multifaceted nature of their relationship.
Support in Global Forums
In addition to bilateral cooperation, Comoros has expressed its backing for India’s aspirations to secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. This support reflects the shared values and mutual respect between the two countries, as well as Comoros's recognition of India's growing influence on the global stage. By endorsing India's candidature, Comoros not only affirms its alliance with India but also indicates its commitment to a reformed and more inclusive global governance structure.
In conclusion, the relationship between Comoros and India has evolved significantly since its inception in the 1970s, characterized by consistent engagement, mutual support, and cooperation on diverse fronts, positioning both nations for a brighter future together.
Trade Relations
India has established itself as a significant trade partner for Comoros, particularly noted in 2015 when it emerged as the third largest destination for exports from the island nation. The bilateral trade between Comoros and India reached a commendable $29.06 million in the fiscal year 2014-15, showcasing an increase from $20.29 million in the previous year. A closer examination of these figures reveals that India exported goods worth $17.76 million to Comoros while importing $11.30 million in total from the archipelago. This trade relationship highlights the mutual economic interests and growing commercial ties between the two countries.
The primary commodities exported by India to Comoros include a diverse range of products such as meat and meat products, textiles and clothing, cereals, and various engineering goods. These exports cater to the basic needs and preferences of the Comorian market, thereby contributing positively to the local economy. Conversely, Comoros primarily exports spices, including high-demand items like cloves and pepper. Additionally, iron and steel waste forms a significant part of India’s imports from Comoros, which could be indicative of the ongoing industrial needs in both countries.
In an effort to enhance trade relations, Indian businessmen visited Comoros in February 2011, which marked a strategic move towards strengthening economic ties. During this visit, contracts were signed focusing on the importation of spices like cloves, pepper, white pepper, and nutmeg from Comoros. This proactive approach has seen the first exports of spices from Comoros to India commence successfully in August-September 2011, indicating the start of a fruitful exchange in agricultural products between the nations.
Furthermore, it is noteworthy that Comoros relies on Mauritius for the majority of its medicines, with many of these pharmaceuticals being produced in India. This dependency not only illustrates the extent of India’s influence in the regional healthcare sector but also signifies the potential for further expansion in trade relations. It opens doors for Indian producers to tap into the medicinal needs of Comoros, along with their established trade in spices and other goods, thereby fostering a more robust economic partnership between the two nations.
Foreign Aid and Development Initiatives
In an effort to bolster development and foster bilateral relations, India and Comoros signed an important agreement in 2006 to implement the Pan African e-Network Project. This initiative aimed to enhance telecommunications and connectivity in the region, marking a significant step towards digital empowerment. The project began its operations in Comoros by September 2010, facilitating access to educational and health services through advanced technology and distance learning programs.
Responding promptly to humanitarian needs, India demonstrated its commitment to supporting Comoros during a food crisis in 2008 by granting an exemption from its ban on the export of 25,000 tonnes of non-basmati rice. This timely assistance was crucial in alleviating the food shortages faced by the island nation. Furthermore, in April 2012, after Comoros experienced torrential rains that caused significant damage, India extended its support by donating $100,000 to aid relief efforts, exemplifying a strong sense of cooperation in challenging times.
In a further demonstration of commitment to infrastructure development, the Government of Comoros entered into an agreement with the EXIM Bank of India on 22 February 2013. This agreement involved a concessional line of credit of $41.6 million directed towards the establishment of a power plant in Moroni. The project was awarded to a consortium of Indian firms, including Overseas Infrastructure Alliance (OIA) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd., and culminated in the inauguration of an 18 MW power plant on 18 July 2015. This project not only addressed energy needs but also underscored India’s role in developing sustainable infrastructure in Comoros.
In addition to infrastructure projects, India is keenly focused on skills development and capacity building in Comoros. Proposals have been made to establish a vocational training center (VTC) in Mitsamiouili, Moroni, aimed at equipping Comorians with essential skills in various domains such as plumbing, welding, electricity, civil works, and information technology. Such initiatives reflect India's commitment to empower the human resource potential of Comoros, enabling a transition towards self-sustained economic growth.
India also extends various scholarship programs to Comorians, fostering educational exchange and capacity enhancement. These include the CV Raman Research Fellowships Scheme, the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations scholarships, and opportunities tied to the India Africa Forum Summit. Moreover, Comorian diplomats have benefited from specialized training courses at the Foreign Service Institute, further enhancing their diplomatic capabilities. Collectively, these initiatives signify a robust framework of cooperation and support between India and Comoros, aiming for mutual growth and development in the region.
Indians in Comoros
As of January 2016, the Indian community in Comoros is comprised of approximately 250 individuals. These expatriates predominantly engage in trade and business activities, contributing significantly to the local economy. The Indian presence in Comoros traces back several decades, and through their entrepreneurial spirit, they have established various businesses ranging from retail shops to food and hospitality services. This vibrant community not only enhances the commercial landscape of Comoros but also fosters cultural exchanges between the two nations.
The Indians in Comoros play a crucial role in trade relations between Comoros and India. Their involvement often facilitates smoother transactions and connections between local businesses and larger markets, both regionally and internationally. Over the years, Indian traders have helped diversify the market offerings in Comoros, introducing a variety of products and services that cater to local tastes and preferences. This trade network is vital as it enhances accessibility to goods, contributes to job creation, and helps in sustaining local livelihoods.
Furthermore, the Indian community in Comoros acts as a cultural bridge between the two countries. Festivals, culinary traditions, and social gatherings celebrated by the Indian diaspora add to the multicultural tapestry of Comoros. Indian nationals often participate in local events, sharing their customs and traditions, which promotes mutual understanding and strengthens bilateral ties.
In addition to the business endeavors, the Indian community also engages in philanthropic initiatives, contributing to local education and health sectors. Various programs initiated by Indians have aimed at improving access to education and healthcare facilities for the local populace. These efforts underscore the longstanding friendship and cooperation that exists between India and Comoros, further solidifying the relationship and enhancing socio-economic development in both regions.
As the years progress, the Indian community's role in Comoros will likely evolve, influenced by changing global economic trends and local demands. The ongoing engagement between the two countries may lead to greater opportunities for collaboration, strengthening ties in trade, culture, and community development initiatives. With India's growing focus on enhancing relationships with African nations, the Indian community in Comoros could play a pivotal role in advancing these objectives in the future.