Maputo (Mozambique): Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said that terrorism is the ‘gravest threat’ to the world, ‘equally impacting’ India and Mozambique which agreed to strengthen security and defence ties and bolster cooperation in food security.
"President Filipe Nyusi and I recognize that terrorism is the gravest security threat facing the world today. Mozambique and India are no exceptions. Terrorism impacts India and Mozambique equally," the PM said at a joint media interaction with Nyusi after their talks during which the two leaders discussed ways to enhance trade and investment and step up cooperation in other fields.
His comments assume significance as they came against the backdrop of spurt in terror attacks in various parts of the world. This included the second major terror attack in less than a week in India's neighbour Bangladesh just hours before Modi spoke. Terrorists even struck at the mosque of Prophet in Saudi city of Medina a few days back.
"The networks of terror are inter-linked with other trans-national crimes. Our agreement on prevention of drug trafficking is a testimony to our shared determination to combat this menace and these networks," Modi said.
India and Mozambique also agreed to step up security and defence cooperation to "advance our shared security interests", Modi, who arrived here this morning on a day-long visit on the first leg of his five-day tour of four African countries, said.
"We will work together to support the Mozambican defence forces. By building capacities and institutions, training of personnel, supply of equipment, and in responding to their other emerging needs," Modi said.
India, Mozambique sign three pacts including on pulses
After Modi's wide-ranging talks with Mozambican President, the two countries signed three pacts, including a significant "long-term agreement" under which India will buy pulses from this African nation to meet its recurring shortfall and contain prices of this commodity.
Declaring India as a "trusted friend" and a "reliable partner" of Mozambique, the Prime Minister also announced that essential medicines, including those for treating AIDS, would be donated to this country as part of efforts to strengthen its public health system.
India will also help build capacities of Mozambique's security forces, Modi said with a vow to "walk every step" with this country on its path of development and progress.
He identified agriculture, healthcare, energy security, security, defence and skill development as some of the areas having potential for cooperation.
"We want our development and economic ties to benefit our societies. We also want our partnership to ensure the safety and security of our people," he said.
Noting that India and Mozambique are connected by the Indian Ocean, he talked about the "emerging security challenges", including in the maritime areas.
"It is an ocean of many economic opportunities. But, we are also aware of the emerging strategic and security challenges in the maritime domain," said the Prime Minister who was later hosted for banquet by the Mozambican President.
Underlining that India and Mozambique "face similar challenges" as the developing countries, Modi told Nyusi, "We will be a trusted friend in your development. And, a reliable partner in ensuring a bright, safe and secure future for our people."
Noting that the partnership between India and Mozambique is "driven by convergence of capacities and interest", he said, "Mozambique's strengths are also the areas of India's need. And, what Mozambique requires, is available in India. We complement each other."
He said Nyusi had highlighted agricultural development as his top priority and the experts of the two countries have since held discussions on "how we can work together to improve agricultural infrastructure and productivity in Mozambique. Today, we agreed to put this cooperation on the fast track."
Referring to the pact signed for purchase of pulses, he said, "We are also strengthening our partnership in food security."
Modi said India's commitment to buy pulses from Mozambique would help meet its requirement and facilitate long-term investments in commercial farming, generate farm employment and raise farmer's incomes in this country.
As per the agreement, officials said India will encourage greater production of Pulses in Mozambique with an assurance that it will be purchased by India at mutually-agreed price. While India generally has shortfall of pulses leading to price rise, Mozambique grows the commodity without much consumption locally, the officials said, adding the agreement will be a "win-win" for the two countries.
"Health care is another area where India's capacities and Mozambican needs match well. India will be donating essential medicines for the Mozambican public health system, including medicines for treatment of AIDS," Modi said.
Describing Mozambique as the "gateway" to Africa, Modi said one-fourth of India's investment in this continent is in this country.
He said the bilateral trade has continued to grow and there was a need to provide a "nurturing" environment.
With PTI Inputs
