In an effort to further strengthen their partnership India and the Dominican Republic have agreed to work together to increase trade, boost investment, and enhance defence and space cooperation.
In a joint statement, Ms Raquel Peña Rodríguez, Vice President of the Dominican Republic, and Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, expressed their mutual interest in exploring avenues for cooperation.
The leaders expressed their understanding of the importance of expanding exchanges and sharing best practices in various fields, such as space exploration, satellite data management, information technology, biotechnology, and more.
India has offered to share its Digital Public Infrastructure (IndiaStack) with the Dominican Republic and this will help both nations in utilizing digital resources effectively. Additionally, the inclusion of the Dominican Republic in the ITEC-Defence program has strengthened their defence ties, which is a positive step for both countries.
The signing of a Cooperation Agreement between Invest India and ProDominicana to promote investment flows is a significant development. This will encourage economic growth and create opportunities for both nations.
Furthermore, two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed: one between the Central Drug Control Organization of India (CDSCO) and the General Directorate of Medicines, Food, and Health Products of the Dominican Republic (DIGEMAPS), and another between the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, National Institute of Oceanography of India (CSIR-NIO) and the National Authority for Maritime Affairs of the Dominican Republic (ANAMAR). These agreements will facilitate collaboration in critical areas.
Next year marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and the Dominican Republic. Both countries plan to celebrate this milestone with a calendar of events that they will create together.
Ms Raquel Peña Rodríguez’s visit to India from October 3-5, 2023, at the invitation of Vice President Dhankar, marks an important moment. During her visit, she met with her Indian counterpart in New Delhi on October 4, where they engaged in high-level political discussions covering a range of bilateral, regional, and multilateral issues of mutual interest.
Both countries are eager to enhance cooperation in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. The Dominican Republic is ready to support the presence of Indian pharmaceutical companies in its territory. India, on the other hand, sees opportunities for collaboration in the healthcare sector, including the supply of generic drugs. This collaboration can improve healthcare access for both nations.
Global Security
The visiting leader also commended India for hosting the Summit on the theme ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future.’ She thanked India for representing the voice and concerns of the Global South and developing countries during its G20 Presidency.
According to the joint statement India and the Dominican Republic strongly condemn terrorism in all its forms and emphasize the need for a united international effort to combat it. And together called for adopting a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and call for the swift finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the UN framework.
UN-led MINUSTAH
India’s involvement in Haiti as part of the UN-led MINUSTAH was appreciated, and both countries stressed the importance of international support for training Haiti’s police and security forces. This assistance contributes to Haiti’s stability and security.
COVID-19 Vaccines
The Dominican Republic expressed gratitude to India for its support in providing COVID-19 vaccines, particularly through its “Vaccine Maitri” initiative. This initiative prioritized vaccination for its frontline workers, showcasing India’s solidarity during the global pandemic.
Political Dialogue
Both countries are keen to strengthen their political dialogue. And recognize the significance of high-level visits, like India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, in April, accompanied by a high-level business delegation.
Furthermore, both countries see potential in the audio-visual sector, given the vibrant film industries in their respective countries. They also acknowledge the importance of addressing climate change, environmental issues, and sustainable development. Collaborative efforts will help build resilience against the negative impacts of climate change.
Additionally, a bilateral cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on ocean science was signed. Both nations will work together to find solutions to the issue of sargassum seaweed proliferation, which affects Caribbean beaches, livelihoods, and the tourist industry.
Both India and the Dominican Republic recognize the opportunities for collaboration in renewable energy, including under the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The Dominican Republic is taking steps for the early ratification of the ISA Framework Agreement.
Furthermore, the two countries are set to deepen their engagement within the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). India co-chairs the CDRI, while the Dominican Republic represents Small Island Developing States in the Executive Committee for the period 2022-2024. This partnership will help build resilient infrastructure and enhance disaster preparedness.
Lastly, the Caribbean nation has expressed interest in establishing an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in its territory. Both countries are eager to strengthen their cooperation in the field of education, which can lead to mutual benefits.
In conclusion, India and the Dominican Republic are committed to strengthening their ties and exploring opportunities for cooperation across various sectors. This partnership is based on mutual respect and shared interests, and it holds the potential to bring significant benefits to both nations.