South Africa’s High Commissioner to India, Prof. Anil Sooklal, has intensified diplomatic and economic outreach in northern India, underscoring the growing momentum in bilateral relations amid India’s BRICS presidency in 2026.
In a series of high-level interactions on 7 March, the High Commissioner engaged business leaders and state officials in Chandigarh and Himachal Pradesh, focusing on trade expansion, investment opportunities, and shared historical bonds.
Boosting BRICS Business Collaboration
In Chandigarh, Prof. Sooklal held a productive meeting with members of the BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BRICS CCI), hosted by Mr. Deepak Shukla, Regional President for Chandigarh. The discussions centred on identifying concrete avenues to enhance trade and investment flows between South Africa and India, particularly through BRICS mechanisms.
Participants explored sectors with high potential, including agro-processing, renewable energy, and manufacturing, aligning with both nations’ priorities for inclusive growth and South-South cooperation. The engagement highlighted the BRICS platform’s role in fostering economic resilience amid global uncertainties.
A key outcome was the confirmation that the Chamber will facilitate an upcoming visit by the South African Chapter of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance to Chandigarh next month. This initiative aims to deepen collaboration among women entrepreneurs, promote people-to-people ties, and build networks that support long-term partnerships. Such exchanges are expected to contribute to greater gender-inclusive business linkages within the BRICS framework.
Courtesies and Cooperation in Himachal Pradesh
High Commissioner Sooklal also paid a courtesy call on the Honourable Speaker of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Shri Kuldeep Singh Pathania. The meeting covered a broad spectrum of topics, reflecting the depth of India-South Africa relations.
Discussions recalled India’s steadfast support during South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle, a foundation that continues to underpin bilateral trust. Turning to contemporary opportunities, the conversation addressed Himachal Pradesh’s economy, with particular emphasis on potential collaboration in organic agriculture and tourism development—sectors where South Africa offers expertise in sustainable practices and eco-tourism models.
The Speaker graciously hosted a tour of the State Parliament, sharing insights into its rich history and architectural significance. This gesture symbolised the warmth of sub-national diplomacy and opened doors for future exchanges between provincial entities.
These engagements demonstrate South Africa’s commitment to diversifying partnerships beyond national capitals, leveraging India’s federal structure to tap regional strengths. As BRICS cooperation evolves under India’s leadership, such interactions are poised to yield tangible benefits for both nations.
