India emerging as key driver in global growth: President Kovind

President Ramnath Kovind has said, India is emerging as a key driver in global growth with the GDP of 2.6 trillion US Dollar, which is set to double in 7 years.

Addressing the National Assembly of Benin in Porto Novo on Monday the President said India's vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwaas’, is not limited to its domestic agenda, but it purposefully guides the external engagement as well.

He said as India’s economy grows, so will its external engagement and in this matrix, countries in Africa will continue to play a prominent role, as India's trusted partners and stakeholders in its prosperity.

The President said that India is committed to support Benin’s growth and development. He expressed happiness on implementation of the 42.6 million US Dollar's Line of Credit for up-gradation of water supply schemes in 103 villages in Benin.

He



announced fresh Line of Credit worth 100 million US Dollars for developmental projects in Benin. He expressed confidence that this facility will give a major boost to India-Benin business relations. President thanked Benin for its support for India's candidature for permanent membership of the UN Security Council.

Both countries reiterated their commitment to stand together in the global fight against terrorism and piracy.

He said the Republic of Benin is a fast-growing economy, a friendly partner and an important gateway to West Africa. The President said, India -Benin two-way trade touched a record 803 million US Dollars in 2018-19.

The President will today meet members of the Indian Community at a reception hosted in his honour in Cotonou. Later he will leave for Banjul, the capital of Gambia for his second leg of three-nation visit.