Finance and Economic Planning Minister Meets Indian Ambassador to Sudan

Dr. Jibril Ibrahim Mohamed, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, met on Monday, August 12, 2024, with Mr. Girija Prasad Joshi, the Indian Ambassador to Sudan, and the embassy staff, which included Mr. Anil Kumar Sharma (Second Secretary) and Mr. Mihar Singha (Attaché), in the presence of Mr. Dr. Mohamed Bashar, the Deputy Minister for Economic Planning, and a representative from the Central Bank of Sudan.

The Indian Ambassador emphasized the depth and importance of the relations between the two countries, noting that the Indian embassy has been operational in Port Sudan since May 2023.

He further clarified that the Indian government has provided numerous training programs and university scholarships to Sudanese students as part of cultural exchange and cooperation initiatives, in addition to medical humanitarian aid for those affected by the war.

The ambassador discussed South-South economic cooperation relations, where India is a key player, and Sudan is a significant country in this domain. He also highlighted the importance of activating agreements between the central banks of the two countries concerning transactions in local currencies.

The ambassador addressed some banking issues faced by the embassy with local banks regarding its core payments.

The minister praised the evolving relations between the two countries and emphasized Sudan’s aspiration to develop and enhance these relations across various fields. He acknowledged India’s role as a UN Security Council member and its significance in South-South cooperation.

The minister expressed gratitude to the Indian government for its substantial support in the fields of medical humanitarian aid and university scholarships.

He stressed the necessity of developing financial and banking cooperation between the two countries and establishing a framework for cooperation using non-dollar currencies within the BRICS group. He also emphasized the importance of activating agreements between the central banks of both countries regarding the use of national currencies for transactions and payments.

The minister assured that the door is open for Indian investment in Sudan, which would benefit both sides.

Regarding the banking issues faced by the embassy, the minister committed to addressing them in cooperation with the Central Bank of Sudan.

At the meeting’s conclusion, the minister renewed his thanks and appreciation to the ambassador for his efforts in developing bilateral relations and promised to accept his invitation to visit India soon, as part of ongoing diplomatic exchanges and experiences sharing.