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MESSAGE OF HE THE AMBASSADOR OF THE REPUBLIC OF SENEGAL TO INDIA

The relations between Senegal and India are based on a firm cultural and historic foundation and are characterized by mutual friendship and deep respect.

The two countries have opted for a multi-polar world and are engaged in the fight against terrorism - the modern day curse-, in upholding equality among sovereign States, the principles of law and good governance, those of territorial integrity and non-interference in the internal affairs of States.

For Senegal, just as it is for India, economic development is anchored on a policy ensuring peace and security as a pre-requisite to the success of any viable strategy.

Senegal can legitimately boast of being a stable country with a long democratic tradition, of strong political institutions and an environment conducive to the development of business.
The experience of India in the fields of industry, agriculture and new information and communication technologies can offer examples of inspiration for the development of Senegal.

The visit to India of His Excellency Maître Abdoulaye WADE, President of the Republic of Senegal, from 12 to 15 October 2003, paved the way for the reinforcement of these principles and the launch of a new Senegalo-Indian strategic cooperation.

India is the biggest client of phosphate products from Senegal and the second shareholder in the Industries Chimiques du Senegal (ICS) company, making it infact, one of the prime commercial partners of Senegal.

The aim is to see it evolve into a first-rate economic partnership. To achieve this, the immediate involvement of businessmen and industrialists from the two countries through « joint ventures » is necessary. On the fringe, Senegal could become the « Gateway » for Indian companies, not only to other West and Central African countries, but also to Europe and America.