Col DPK Pillay
IN a significant milestone for India-Tanzania relations, the two nations have elevated their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, underscored by a comprehensive five-year roadmap for defence and maritime security cooperation.
The new phase in their relationship was formalised during the visit of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan to India in October 2023, reflecting a deepening bond rooted in mutual respect, shared interests, and a vision for regional stability.
India and Tanzania share a relationship that stretches back over two millennia, with historical trade routes connecting the Indian subcontinent to East Africa. Today, this bond has evolved into a robust partnership and is particularly important given Tanzania’s strategic location along the East African coast of the Indian Ocean.
Gateway to Africa
Tanzania has emerged as a vital partner for India’s outreach to Africa, acting as a gateway to other African nations. The Indian Ocean, shared by both countries, is not just a conduit for trade but also a zone of strategic interest, given the rise of non-traditional security threats like piracy, terrorism, and illegal trafficking.
At the heart of this enhanced relationship is the five-year roadmap for defence cooperation, agreed upon during the second meeting of the IndiaTanzania Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) in June 2023. This roadmap lays the foundation for extensive collaboration in several key areas.
India has long been a trusted partner in training Tanzanian military personnel, and this relationship is set to expand. Tanzanian officers will continue to receive training at India’s premier military institutions, including the National Defence College (NDC) and the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC). These programmes are designed to equip Tanzanian forces with skills in areas such as cyber security, counterterrorism, and maritime operations.
Maritime security
Recognising the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean, the roadmap emphasises enhanced maritime cooperation. Joint naval exercises, information sharing, and improved surveillance will be central to securing vital sea lanes and combating piracy and other threats. This is especially crucial given the growing importance of the Indian Ocean as a global trade artery.
India is poised to support Tanzania’s defence capabilities by providing a range of military equipment, including patrol vessels and logistics support vehicles. Moreover, the two countries will collaborate on developing defence infrastructure in Tanzania, further strengthening the operational readiness of the Tanzanian military.
A technical agreement has been established between the Indian Navy and the Tanzanian Shipping Agencies Corporation, focusing on sharing white shipping information. This initiative is aimed at enhancing situational awareness in the Indian Ocean and ensuring the safe passage of commercial vessels.
Beyond defence
An MoU between Cochin Shipyard Ltd. and Tanzania’s Marine Services Company Ltd. will see increased cooperation in shipbuilding and other maritime industries. This partnership is expected to support Tanzania’s burgeoning blue economy and enhance its maritime infrastructure.
The strategic partnership between India and Tanzania extends beyond defence, encompassing a broad range of sectors that underscore the comprehensive nature of their relationship. During President Hassan’s visit, six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, covering areas from digital transformation to cultural exchanges.
The elevation of India-Tanzania relations to a strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in their bilateral ties, particularly in the realms of defence and maritime security. This partnership not only enhances Tanzania’s defence capabilities but also reinforces India’s strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region. As both nations continue to collaborate across a wide range of sectors, this partnership is set to contribute significantly to regional stability, security, and economic prosperity.
The agreements reached in 2023 reflect a shared commitment to addressing the complex security challenges of the 21st century, while also promoting economic growth and social development.
