The United Diplomatic Council (UDC) successfully hosted the United Economic Summit 2026 in Coimbatore, bringing together diplomats, policymakers, trade commissioners, entrepreneurs and industry leaders from India, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Africa to advance international trade, investment and strategic partnerships.
The summit served as a high-level platform for discussions on strengthening economic cooperation across emerging markets, with a focus on expanding business connectivity, facilitating investments and encouraging collaboration between governments, trade institutions and the private sector.
The event was graced by H.E. Prof. Joyce Kakuramatsi Kikafunda, High Commissioner of the Republic of Uganda to India who highlighted the growing opportunities for stronger economic engagement between India and African nations across sectors including healthcare, agriculture, education, manufacturing, infrastructure and technology.
Joining the summit as the Guest of Honour was Murtadha M. J. Ibrahim Al Jamalani, Deputy Chairman of the Health Committee, Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who shared insights on enhancing cooperation between Oman, India and African economies through greater collaboration in healthcare, investment, trade facilitation and commercial development.
Among the distinguished participants was Dr. Krishnadas, Honorary Trade Commissioner – India–Mauritius and Chairman & Managing Trustee of Nehru Group of Institutions. During the summit, he led discussions focused on strengthening India–Mauritius economic relations, recognising Mauritius as a strategic gateway for Indian businesses seeking greater engagement with Africa.
Over the years, Dr. Krishnadas has been at the forefront of advancing Tamil Nadu–Mauritius relations, having participated in and led multiple business and institutional delegations to Mauritius. Through his continued engagement with government agencies, educational institutions and industry leaders in both countries, he has played a significant role in promoting cooperation in education, healthcare, trade, investment and skill development, further reinforcing the longstanding partnership between Mauritius and the State of Tamil Nadu.
Speaking during the summit, Dr. Krishnadas, Honorary Trade Commissioner – India–Mauritius, said:
“India and Mauritius enjoy a unique partnership founded on shared history, mutual trust and a common vision for economic progress. As both countries continue to strengthen their engagement, there is tremendous scope for collaboration in education, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, innovation and investment. “
Delegates explored opportunities to strengthen India–Mauritius cooperation across higher education, healthcare, skill development, manufacturing, technology, tourism and investment, while recognising Mauritius’ strategic role as a gateway for Indian businesses into Africa. Broader discussions also focused on expanding collaboration in pharmaceuticals, logistics, infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, food security, digital technology and industrial innovation, with emphasis on improving market access, promoting technology transfer, strengthening resilient supply chains and creating an enabling environment for cross-border trade and investment.
Dr. Asif Iqbal, President of the United Diplomatic Council, emphasised the significance of multilateral dialogue in strengthening international economic cooperation.
“The United Economic Summit reflects our commitment to bringing together diplomatic missions, trade organisations, policymakers and business leaders to create meaningful opportunities for international collaboration. The discussions held on India–Mauritius relations, alongside partnerships with the GCC and African nations, demonstrate the growing importance of business diplomacy in facilitating investment, knowledge exchange and sustainable economic development..”
The United Economic Summit 2026 concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening economic ties between India, Mauritius, GCC countries and Africa through sustained dialogue, institutional collaboration and strategic partnerships, reaffirming the United Diplomatic Council’s role in advancing global business diplomacy and international economic cooperation.
About The Author
