Tanzania and India have agreed to strengthen their long-standing relations by focusing on economic diplomacy aimed at expanding trade, attracting investment, and enhancing skills development for mutual benefit.
The agreement was reached during a bilateral meeting held on April 21, 2026, in Dar es Salaam between the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Dr. Samwel Shelukindo, and the High Commissioner of India to Tanzania, Bishwadip Dey.
The discussions focused on reviewing the progress of cooperation between the two countries and identifying new areas of strategic engagement that can directly support economic growth and development.
Both sides emphasized that economic diplomacy remains a key tool in strengthening international partnerships and ensuring that cooperation delivers practical benefits to citizens through job creation, technology transfer, and business opportunities.
Key sectors highlighted for enhanced cooperation include industrial development, information and communication technology (ICT), health services, infrastructure development, and human resource development.
The two officials noted that strengthening collaboration in these sectors would support Tanzania’s industrialization agenda and improve service delivery to citizens.
During the meeting, High Commissioner Bishwadip Dey delivered an official invitation for Tanzania to participate in the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit, scheduled for May 2026 in India.
The summit is expected to bring together African and Indian leaders to discuss cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and sustainable development.
Ambassador Dr. Samwel Shelukindo welcomed the invitation and expressed appreciation to the Government of India for its continued support in strengthening bilateral relations.
He noted that India remains an important development partner for Tanzania in various sectors, including education, industry, and trade.
He further said that economic diplomacy has continued to open new opportunities for Tanzanian businesses and youth, especially in areas that promote innovation, industrial growth, and skills development.
“The relationship between Tanzania and India continues to create real opportunities for our people, especially in investment, technology transfer, and capacity building.
This is the direction we want to strengthen further,” said Ambassador Shelukindo.
He also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring effective coordination and preparation for Tanzania’s participation in the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit, stressing the importance of active engagement to maximize national benefits.
On his part, Bishwadip Dey said India is committed to strengthening cooperation with Tanzania through practical initiatives that directly benefit citizens.
He noted that India plans to deploy experts to Tanzania to conduct training and public lectures on various issues, including artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and youth empowerment.
He added that equipping young people with modern technological skills is essential in building self-reliance and promoting innovation in both countries.
Both sides agreed to continue close consultations to ensure that ongoing and future cooperation programs are effectively implemented and aligned with national development priorities.
Tanzania and India have enjoyed decades of strong diplomatic relations, with cooperation covering trade, education, health, defense, and infrastructure development.
The renewed focus on economic diplomacy is expected to further strengthen these ties and create more opportunities for citizens in both countries.
