New Delhi: India on Tuesday dispatched 1,000 metric tonnes of rice to Sierra Leone to support its school midday meal programme. The move reflects India’s continued efforts to strengthen partnerships with countries in the Global South while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

Support for global south cooperation

The development was confirmed by Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in a post on X. He stated that the shipment of rice demonstrates Global South partnership in action and aligns with India’s commitment to deepen cooperation with partner nations and support global development goals.

Review of bilateral relations

The announcement comes in the backdrop of growing engagement between the two countries. In March last year, India and Sierra Leone held the second round of Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi.

During the discussions, both sides reviewed bilateral relations across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, education, and people-to-people exchanges.

The meeting was co-chaired by Sevala Naik Mude, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, and Alan CE Logan, Director General in Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Focus on development and digital cooperation

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, India has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sierra Leone in capacity building across various sectors and further strengthening the development partnership between the two countries.

Officials from both sides expressed satisfaction over progress related to India Stack, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in sharing large-scale digital solutions for transformation. They also discussed the next steps for implementation in this area.

The statement added that both countries agreed to expand and diversify their partnership in key areas of current importance, including defence cooperation, energy development and broader development initiatives.

Engagement on global platforms

The consultations also included discussions on regional and international issues, with both sides exchanging views on matters of global importance. Cooperation within multilateral organisations, including the United Nations, was also a key focus.

Sierra Leone indicated that it would consider supporting India’s candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2028–29 term. It also agreed to fast-track internal approvals for joining the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

Longstanding ties between India and Sierra Leone

India and Sierra Leone share a longstanding relationship built on common values and a shared vision, with ties spanning nearly six decades. India has continued to support Sierra Leone’s development through initiatives such as concessional loans, scholarships and capacity-building programmes.

Both countries also maintain cooperation at the United Nations and other international platforms, further strengthening their diplomatic engagement.

With IANS inputs