Press Releases
Press Briefing by Ambassador of India to Burkina Faso
30 March 2026, Embassy of India, Ouagadougou
On 30 March 2026, the Ambassador of India to Burkina Faso, H.E. Om Prakash Meena, held a press briefing at the Embassy premises in Ouagadougou, where he addressed members of the media on the enduring and friendly relations between India and Burkina Faso.
In his remarks, the Ambassador underscored that India and Burkina Faso share a relationship built on mutual respect, solidarity, and the guiding principle of South–South cooperation. He emphasized that India’s partnership with Burkina Faso reflects a shared vision of “developing together as equals,” which continues to grow stronger over time.
The Ambassador highlighted that diplomatic relations between the two countries have evolved steadily. Burkina Faso established its Mission in New Delhi in 1996, later upgrading it to Ambassadorial level, while India reaffirmed its commitment by reopening its Embassy in Ouagadougou in 2019. These developments, he noted, reflect the importance both nations attach to their bilateral partnership.
Referring to high-level exchanges, the Ambassador stated that such engagements have played a vital role in strengthening bilateral ties. He recalled the historic visit of Thomas Sankara to India in 1983, followed by visits from leaders such as Blaise Compaoré and Roch Marc Christian Kaboré. He also noted the recent visit of Ousmane Bougouma, President of the Transitional Legislative Assembly. On the Indian side, he highlighted the landmark visit of Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao to Burkina Faso in 1995, which laid a strong foundation for long-term cooperation.
The Ambassador further emphasized the importance of the institutional framework, particularly the Joint Commission established in 1994, which continues to guide cooperation across political, economic, cultural, and technical domains.
On economic relations, the Ambassador noted that bilateral trade has demonstrated resilience and reached significant levels in recent years. India imports gold, cotton, and agricultural products from Burkina Faso, while exporting pharmaceuticals, machinery, and vehicles. He highlighted the vast untapped potential in sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, infrastructure, mining, and healthcare. Indian companies, including Tata Power and KEC International, are actively contributing to development projects in Burkina Faso.
Highlighting India’s development partnership, the Ambassador stated that it is aligned with the priorities of the Government and people of Burkina Faso. Through Lines of Credit, grant assistance, and capacity-building programmes, India has supported projects in agriculture, rural electrification, vocational training, and infrastructure.
He also emphasized India’s contribution to human resource development, noting that hundreds of Burkinabe professionals have benefited from training programmes under ITEC and scholarships offered by India. These initiatives are helping build skills, foster innovation, and strengthen institutional capacities.
At the multilateral level, the Ambassador noted strong cooperation between the two countries. Burkina Faso is an active member of the International Solar Alliance, a flagship initiative launched by India. Both countries also share common positions on global issues, including the need for reformed multilateralism and enhanced representation of Africa in global governance institutions.
On security issues, the Ambassador stated that India and Burkina Faso are united in their commitment to combating terrorism and promoting peace and stability. India supports African-led solutions to security challenges and expressed solidarity with those affected by violence and displacement including Burkina Faso.
The Ambassador also highlighted strong cultural and people-to-people ties, noting vibrant cultural exchanges and the growing popularity of Yoga in Burkina Faso. He acknowledged the contribution of the Indian community in Burkina Faso in socio-economic development of Burkina Faso and strengthening bilateral relations.
Looking ahead, the Ambassador stressed that there is immense potential for further deepening cooperation between the two countries through enhanced trade, development partnerships, and people-to-people exchanges.
In conclusion, the Ambassador reaffirmed India’s commitment to its partnership with Burkina Faso, stating: “Let me conclude by reaffirming India’s unwavering commitment to its friendship with Burkina Faso. Together, we will continue to advance our shared goals of peace, progress, and sustainable development.”
The press briefing concluded with a PowerPoint presentation showcasing key activities and initiatives undertaken by the Embassy of India in Burkina Faso during the year 2025.
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