The Union Minister of Steel, Shri Beni Prasad Verma led a delegation to Zimbabwe to strengthen relations between the two countries in the areas of steel and mining. The Minister of Steel was received at the Harare airport by Prof Welshman Ncube, Minister of Industry and Commerce of the Republic of Zimbabwe on 8th April, 2013. Shri Verma was accompanied by Shri D.R.S. Chaudhary, Secretary (Steel), other senior officials of Ministry of Steel and CMDs of Public Sector companies under Ministry of Steel.
Shri Beni Prasad Verma had a series of meetings with different Ministers, starting with Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Mr. Obert Moses Mpofu. It was mentioned by Mr. Mpofu that the existence of a relationship over the years between the two countries could be seen in the cordial talks between the two Ministers. He acknowledged India’s role in the growth of Zimbabwe stating that many of the present functionaries have been educated in India. He requested the Minister of Steel to support Zimbabwe in developing its mineral resources. Shri Beni Prasad Verma was quick to respond with the assurance that companies in India will be in touch with the mines ministry to take it forward.
Speaking on the occasion Shri Verma said, “Zimbabwe has large reserves of low grade iron ore, the Indian steel industry can be a partner in developing and gainfully utilizing these resources.” He added that such ventures would be extremely beneficial and would further strengthen ties between the two countries. The Minister assured support to Zimbabwean entrepreneurs trying to set up base in India.
This was followed by a meeting with Mr. Walter Mzembi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Government of Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean Minister requested the Steel Minister to help in developing projects in the area of Iron ore, Coal, Gold, Diamond and Chrome. An MoU is under consideration between NMDC and a Govt Company of Zimbabwe.
This was followed by a meeting with Prof. Welshman Ncube, Minister of Industry and Commerce, Government of Zimbabwe.
The visit will strengthen relations between the two countries and give thrust to the possibility of exploration and development of mineral assets.