Jaishankar's Veiled Dig At China: This Is A Deeper Partnership; India Not In Africa As An 'Extractive Economy'

In a veiled dig at China, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (7 July) said that India is not an "extractive economy" and does not engage in "narrow economic" activities in the resource-rich Africa, unlike some other countries.

Jaishankar, who arrived in Tanzania on Thursday (6 July) after visiting Zanzibar, made these remarks while addressing the Indian community in Dar-es-Salaam city.

During his address to the community, he emphasised India's commitment to the growth of Africa. India aims to trade more, invest, and work with African countries to develop their economies and enhance their capacities, according to the minister.

"Today we want to see Africa grow. We want to see African economies grow. And our approach to Africa today is to trade more with Africa, invest in Africa, work with Africa, to create capacities in Africa, so that the rise of Africa also takes place as countries like India are rising in Asia," he said, reports The Hindu.

"We are not here as an extractive economy. We are not here in the manner in which a lot of other countries are there for very narrow economic objectives. For us, this is a broader, deeper partnership," Jaishankar said, in an apparent reference to China's activities in Africa, including its military involvement in the continent.

China's presence in Africa includes the establishment of its first overseas military support base in Djibouti in 2015. This move is part of China's strategy to extend its military power beyond the Asia-Pacific region.

Additionally, Chinese companies are actively involved in exploiting Africa's valuable mineral resources.

Jaishankar emphasised that India is now seen as a contributor by the world.

Indian companies, technologies, and capacities are recognized for their role in improving the lives of people globally, he added.

In a tweet about the event, the Jaishankar said, "Had a lively interaction with members of the Indian community in Dar es Salaam. Stressed the importance of Mission IT (India & Tanzania). Highlighted the strong India-Africa connection, especially our deep links with East Africa; Heart of India and Tanzania ties is the solidarity of spirit and mutuality of interests".

"Recognised that the Indian community is an expression, contributor and force of this relationship; Explained how India and Tanzania's friendship is making a difference in the lives of the average Tanzanian. Our water projects will benefit 8 million," he tweeted.

"With 750 slots annually, Tanzania is India’s largest African partner in training and capacity building. The Indian community had historically been a source of strength for the relationship. As our ties expand, so will their role," he added.