External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday extended warm Independence Day greetings to the government and people of Burundi, as the African nation celebrated its 64th year of independence from Belgium. In a post on X, Jaishankar also personally wished Burundi’s Ambassador to India, Édouard Bizimana, saying: “Warm wishes to Ambassador Édouard Bizimana, the Government and people of Burundi on their Independence Day.”
Burundi’s Independence and Geography
Burundi observes its Independence Day annually on July 1, commemorating its liberation from Belgian colonial rule in 1962. Located in the Great Lakes Region of Africa, the country shares borders with Tanzania to the east, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Rwanda to the north, and Lake Tanganyika to the southwest. With an estimated population of 14 million, Burundi is one of the most densely populated nations in Africa, with a density of approximately 442 people per square kilometer.
Economic Profile and Agricultural Dependence
According to the World Bank, Burundi is a landlocked nation with a low-income economy. The agricultural sector employs about 85% of the population, making it the backbone of the country’s economy. Despite its challenges, Burundi maintains cordial and friendly relations with India, which have strengthened over the years.
India-Burundi Bilateral Relations
India and Burundi have enjoyed warm diplomatic ties, with a significant milestone being the opening of Burundi’s resident mission in New Delhi in 2009. The Ministry of External Affairs notes that progressive interactions between the political leaderships of both countries have lent importance and direction to the relationship. The first-ever Foreign Office Consultations between India and Burundi were held in October 2017 in New Delhi, covering bilateral, regional, and global issues. The second round of consultations took place on December 12, 2023, in Bujumbura, Burundi, where both sides discussed development cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, renewable energy, social and humanitarian affairs, and defence and security.
Indian Diaspora in Burundi
An estimated 700 Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) reside in Burundi. Most are traders, businessmen, or engineers and workers at the Kabu Hydro-electricity project. The Indian diaspora plays a positive role in Burundi’s economy, recognized and appreciated by both the Burundian government and its citizens. During the political crisis in Burundi in 2015, the Burundian government ensured that no harm came to any Indian citizens or PIOs residing there, reflecting the friendly attitude toward the Indian community.
