Africa-Press – Eswatini. His Majesty King Mswati III has appreciated the support by India in many areas that have benefitted Eswatini as a result of the strong bilateral relations between the two nations.
He also appreciated the Republic of India’s intervention and assistance in the pharmaceutical industry, stating that he was very impressed to hear of the progress in the establishment of the resident High Commission in the country. He was speaking during the presentation of letters of credence by India High Commissioner to Eswatini RamPrasad at Lozitha Palace yesterday.
The King said the country was also grateful that the cooperation between the two countries had greatly contributed to Eswatini in many ways, touching many Emaswati in the process.
He said the support was in areas including information and communication technology and the agriculture sector, amongst many others. He said the assistance goes a long way and that the country was looking forward to more areas of cooperation, including trade and pharmaceutical industries.The King added that during the Africa-India Summit, they learnt how much the government cared for the people and also shared with Africa what they had.
“Your president was here during the State visit and he announced something important and as such, we are pleased that India’s communication with Eswatini will now be made easier. We have no doubt that if we can bring the pharmaceutical industry and others, a lot of benefits would accrue to the kingdom. We are therefore looking forward to working with India in more areas.
Developed
“I know India has developed pharmaceutical industries that have produced quality medicines. We also have a testimony because the remedies by India assisted a lot of Emaswati during the COVID-19 era. We were very pleased with that and have seen the positive results,’’ he said.
Adding, His Majesty said he was looking forward to the construction of the new Parliament building, especially after being informed that the designs were now at an advanced stage and the sod-cutting ceremony would be held soon. The King also appreciated the data back-up
support forThe Royal Science and Technology Park, which will be constructed next to the RSTP. Meanwhile, the high commissioner noted that
India’s relationship with the Kingdom of Eswatini was close and cordial.
He noted the different forms of assistance that had been offered by India on several occasions. He said these included E17million (US$ 1million) cash grant to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) in-kind donation of 700 tons of rice and 300 tons of beans for the NDMA and medicines and medical equipment worth E51 million (US$ 3 million). He added the improvement of irrigation infrastructure, donation to Philani Maswati and Khulisa Umntfwana, COVID-19 vaccines, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), health, scholarships and more.
“We wholeheartedly thank Your Majesty for the kind gift of land for the construction of the High Commission residence. There was also the establishment of two Indian Corners at the National Libraries in Mbabane and Manzini, which is an indication of the commitment of India towards the people of Eswatini.
“These achievements are only the initial phase of our budding bilateral relationship. Eswatini is a key development partner for India and it is my mandate to carry forward the momentum and take the relationship to newheights,”Prasad said.
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