The Republic of Djibouti has appointed Vishal P Mehta, the CEO of Rushabh Sealink, as its Honorary Consul General and inaugurated its first Mumbai office at the ITC Grand Maratha Sheraton. The event marked a historic milestone, highlighting Djibouti’s strategic global presence and fostering diplomatic ties with India.
Inauguration Ceremony:
The grand inauguration ceremony at ITC Grand Maratha Sheraton was attended by distinguished guests, including Vishal P Mehta, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Djibouti; His Excellency Isse Abdillahi Assoweh, the Ambassador of Djibouti; Honorable Minister of Shipping, Sarbananda Sonowal; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, V Muraleedharan; Vinod Tawde, General Secretary of BJP; and Ashish Chauhan, MD & CEO of the National Stock Exchange.
Strategic Significance:
Djibouti, Africa’s third smallest country, plays a crucial role in international peacekeeping, hosting military bases of nations like the USA, China, Japan, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom. Vishal P Mehta highlighted Djibouti’s significance as the world’s largest trans-shipment port, facilitating 30% of global shipping vessels.
Synergies with Mumbai:
Vishal P Mehta emphasized the synergies between Mumbai’s port-centric environment and Djibouti’s focus on shipping and transport. The Mumbai office inauguration signifies a collaborative effort to promote business, trade, and cultural exchanges between the two regions.
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Diplomatic Collaboration:
The ceremony underscores the growing diplomatic ties between Djibouti and India, fostering collaboration and goodwill on a global scale. Vishal P Mehta’s appointment is seen as a step towards strengthening relations and expanding beyond geographical boundaries.
Statements from Dignitaries:
- Hon Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal expressed pride in Vishal Mehta’s appointment and highlighted its potential to strengthen bilateral relations.
- V Muraleedharan, Hon Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the collaboration’s positive impact on various sectors like medical tourism, healthcare, pharma, IT, digital infrastructure, and renewable energy.
- Vinod Tawde, National General Secretary of BJP, commended Vishal Mehta’s individual social responsibility during the COVID-19 pandemic and wished him success.
- Ashish Chauhan, MD & CEO of NSE, acknowledged Vishal Mehta’s philanthropy and anticipated positive contributions to the relationship between the two countries.
Conclusion:
Vishal P Mehta’s appointment as Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Djibouti and the inauguration of the Mumbai office mark a significant chapter in diplomatic relations between Djibouti and India. The event signifies a collaborative effort to promote economic development, trade, and cultural ties, further solidifying the bonds between the two nations.
