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The Diplomat: Analyzing the Influence of China in the Strategic Partnership between India and Tanzania

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The recent strengthening of India’s engagement with Tanzania is a direct result of China’s declining global reputation as an equal and trusted partner. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Tanzania has had negative economic and environmental effects, creating an opportunity for India to expand its bilateral relations with Tanzania. India and Tanzania have a long history of close and friendly relations, and Tanzania’s strategic location and economic potential make it an important partner for India in Africa. By leveraging their shared strengths and interests, India and Tanzania can form a long-lasting partnership that promotes economic growth, regional integration, and people-centric development, while contributing to the shared vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and the African Union’s vision for peace and security in Africa. Focusing on the development of the blue economy can accelerate economic growth.

China, on the other hand, has been exporting its economic and industrial overcapacities to developing regions, including Tanzania. China’s infrastructure projects in Africa, like the BRI, have aimed to enhance global connectivity but have also served China’s resource extraction strategy. One example is the Bagamoyo Port Project, a multi-billion-dollar initiative that ultimately did not receive approval from the Tanzanian government due to concerns over China’s loan financing. This project would have given China a strategic advantage in the Indian Ocean and countered India’s influence in the region. With China losing ground in Tanzania, India is taking steps to fill the void and strengthen its ties with Dar es Salaam.

During President Samia Sulubu Hassan’s visit to India, India and Tanzania elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership. The partnership covers various domains such as trade, investment, defense, maritime security, development collaboration, higher education, and people-to-people ties. The two countries reached agreements on defense cooperation and signed agreements on digital cooperation, culture, sports, maritime industries, and white shipping information sharing. This strategic partnership aligns with India’s goal of reinforcing and reshaping its relations with Tanzania and establishing itself as Tanzania’s top extra-regional partner.

India and Tanzania have a strong economic cooperation, with Tanzania being India’s largest development partner in Africa. Bilateral trade reached a record $6.4 billion, and India is the fifth largest investor in Tanzania with investments totaling $3.7 billion. India also provides concessional financing and capacity-building initiatives, totaling $1.1 billion in lines of credit. The two countries are exploring opportunities for collaboration in sectors such as agriculture, mining, energy, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, and information technology. India’s involvement in port development and logistical infrastructure projects can enhance connectivity and economic integration within the East African region. Tanzania also benefits from Indian investment in healthcare infrastructure and educational opportunities.

Maritime security and defense cooperation are crucial aspects of the strategic partnership between India and Tanzania. Both countries share a vision of promoting peace, security, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region. They are committed to ensuring freedom of navigation, maintaining open sea lanes, and preventing interference in maritime activities. This partnership is especially important in addressing non-traditional security challenges in the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Overall, the strategic partnership between India and Tanzania aims to foster economic growth, strengthen regional integration, and promote peace and security. It highlights India’s proactive and calibrated strategy to consolidate its influence in the region and expand its traditional ties with Tanzania.

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