IETO President Mr. Asif Iqbal Meets H.E. Mr. Zada Seidou, Ambassador of the Republic of Niger
Today, July 17, 2025, Mr. Asif Iqbal, President of the Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO), met with H.E. Mr. Zada Seidou, Ambassador of the Republic of Niger, at the Embassy of Niger in Vasant Vihar, New Delhi. The meeting highlighted the strong and evolving partnership between India and Niger and explored avenues for further cooperation across a spectrum of sectors.
India and Niger have shared a productive relationship rooted in mutual development objectives, trade facilitation, and expanding people-to-people ties. The Republic of Niger, located in West Africa, is strategically landlocked and bordered by Algeria, Libya, Chad, Nigeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Mali. Its geographic position offers unique opportunities for regional connectivity and market access, making it an attractive partner for Indian businesses aiming to expand in Africa.
India has maintained an active engagement with Niger, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, education, renewable energy, and capacity-building. Both nations recognize the importance of deepening trade and investment ties to generate inclusive growth and socio-economic development for their populations.
During the meeting, both dignitaries expressed profound grief over the recent tragic incident in Niger, where unidentified assailants attacked security personnel guarding the vital Niger-Benin oil pipeline. The attack resulted in the loss of six soldiers, including one Indian citizen. Mr. Iqbal and H.E. Mr. Zada Seidou exchanged condolences for the victims, reaffirming their commitment to protect the interests and safety of their nations’ citizens and to further strengthen security cooperation.
The discussions also covered plans for IETO to lead a delegation to visit the University of OIC, aiming to foster educational cooperation and skill exchange between the two countries. Additionally, discussions included a proposal to support the construction of a mosque in Niger — an initiative raised by members of the Indian diaspora in Niger and supported by IETO.
Ambassador Seidou extended an invitation for IETO to participate in the upcoming India-Africa Trade Council conference, scheduled to be held in India from August 27–29, 2025, where IETO will participate to further promote bilateral trade and investment opportunities.
Further, Mr. Iqbal proposed hosting a dedicated Niger-India Trade Summit to provide a focused platform for strengthening economic ties and encouraging business innovation between the two nations. To facilitate smoother trade relations, the establishment of a Niger Trade Desk in Kochi was suggested, which could serve as a hub for trade facilitation and coordination. Additionally, specific sectors such as meat processing and solar energy were identified as promising areas for Indian investments in Niger.
A key takeaway from the meeting was the shared vision for a diplomatic and business exploratory mission to Niger, where IETO would lead a delegation of 5–6 Indian business leaders to assess the local market. This visit would be followed by a larger business expansion initiative aimed at enhancing trade and mutual growth.
India and Niger continue to nurture a partnership founded on mutual growth, security, and cultural exchange. The new initiatives and cooperation agreements discussed today underscore shared ambitions to enhance bilateral trade, development, and long-term strategic relations.
