India, Uganda sign farm trade pact

Mumbai: India and Uganda have signed an agreement on farm trade to boost cooperation in the field of agriculture.

Kanti Lal Bhuria, minister of state for agriculture signed an agreement at Kambala with Hilary Obek, minister of agriculture, animal industry and fisheries of the Republic of Uganda.

The two countries have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of agriculture, especially technical exchanges in this area, an official release said.

During a meeting held between Mr Bhuria, who is on a visit to the African republic, and Uganda''s fisheries minister Fred Mukisa, the two sides stressed on greater cooperation between their agricultural research institutions, the release said.

The agreement envisages exchanges in the areas of co-operation, animal husbandry, agricultural sciences and technology. It will also open the door for joint ventures in various fields of agri-business. Other features include research and training related exchanges of people and materials, extension management, agri-trade, plant protection and horticulture. A joint group will also be set up to oversee implementation of the agreement.

After signing the agreement, the minister expressed the hope that the agreement will further strengthen the friendly ties between the two countries. Mr Bhuria is leaving for Rwanda later tonight.