Discussions at FOC highlight depth and diversity of the cooperation between India and Zimbabwe
The 3rd Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between India and Zimbabwe held in Harare on August 6, 2024, provided both sides a good opportunity to review the entire gamut of bilateral relations and explore new avenues for cooperation. 

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), discussions at the FOC looked at existing institutional mechanisms such as the Joint Commission and the Joint Trade Committee. The discussions were broad and encompassed multiple sectors, highlighting the depth and diversity of the cooperation between India and Zimbabwe.

Sectoral cooperation in the fields of defence, agriculture, health, mines, minerals and geology, Digital Platforms, education, training and capacity building and cultural exchanges were also discussed. 

The Indian delegation was led by Puneet R. Kundal, Additional Secretary (East & Southern Africa), Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India, while the Zimbabwean side was headed by Mike Chigiji, Chief Director (Political), Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Trade, Republic of Zimbabwe. 

In addition to bilateral issues, the consultations provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on regional and global matters of mutual interest. They discussed their cooperation within the United Nations and other international forums, highlighting their shared commitment to addressing global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and peacekeeping.

Building on Past Successes: Joint Trade Committee Review

The third session of the India-Zimbabwe Joint Trade Committee (JTC) was also reviewed during the consultations. Held in New Delhi from May 13-14, 2024, the JTC session was co-chaired by Priya P. Nair, Economic Adviser, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, and Rudo M. Faranisi, Chief Director, Economic Cooperation, International Trade and Diaspora, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Government of Zimbabwe.

The JTC discussions focused on enhancing bilateral trade, addressing pending issues, and exploring new areas of economic cooperation. Both sides agreed to make concerted efforts towards boosting trade and investment, with a particular emphasis on pharmaceuticals, geospatial technology, healthcare, machinery, renewable energy, and the digital economy. They also agreed on closer collaboration between their respective investment promotion agencies and chambers of commerce.

The 3rd Foreign Office Consultations concluded with both sides expressing their commitment to further deepen and diversify their bilateral relations. It was agreed to hold the next FOC at mutually convenient dates in New Delhi, continuing the momentum of positive engagement and cooperation.