India and Benin reviewed bilateral relations and discussed ways to further strengthen ties between the two countries today. The third round of Foreign Office Consultations between India and Benin was held on 24th and 25th June in Cotonou, Benin. During the Foreign Office Consultations, both sides reviewed the bilateral relations including political, trade and economic, defence, development partnership, capacity building, and cultural relations. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest and agreed to enhance their cooperation in the multilateral forum.
External Affairs Ministry said the discussions were focused on further promoting developmental cooperation and capacity building in the spirit of South-South cooperation. The bilateral trade and Indian investment in Benin have been growing steadily. Bilateral trade registered 1.34 billion dollars during 2022-23. Around 90 Indian or Indian-owned companies are operating in Benin in the fields of automobiles, textiles and food processing in Cotonou, consolidating India’s economic cooperation and contributing to the Beninese economy.