Seeking to enhance India's engagement in the African continent, Vice President Mohammed Hamid Ansari today left on a five-day visit to Rwanda and Uganda.
Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Vijay Sampla and four Members of Parliament including Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader Kanimozhi, Ranvijay Singh Judev, Ranee Narah and P.K. Biju are also a part of the delegation.
During his visit, Vice President Ansari will hold discussions with leaders in the two east African nations on issues of bilateral interest.
On first leg of his visit, he will pay homage at the genocide museum in Kigali, Rwanda, and interact with the Indian community there and attend a banquet hosted by their Prime Minister Anastase Murekezi.
His visit comes shortly after the visit of President of Rwanda Paul Kagame for the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in January this year.
India-Rwanda relations are marked by cordiality, convergence of views and cooperation on major international issues, an increasing trend in bilateral trade and investments, greater people to people contacts and a deep sense of mutual respect.
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During his visit to Uganda, the Vice President will be meeting his counterpart Edward Ssekandi and President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni.
The Vice President will also address India-Uganda Business Forum. Besides, he would be paying floral tribute to the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Jinja.
Vice President Ansari will also be interacting with the Indian community in Kampala.
The bilateral relations between India and Uganda are characterised by historical cultural linkages, extensive economic and trade interests, and a convergence on major bilateral and international issues.
President Yoweri Museveni had attended the 3rd India Africa Forum Summit held in October 2015. Vice President Ansari's visit is expected to deepen and expand the bilateral relationship.
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