'W Bengal can boost trade relations with ASEAN countries'
Pranab Mukherjee says since the state is strategically located and shares international boundaries with three countries in south Asia, it could expedite industrial and trade ties with them.
By PTI |
KOLKATA: West Bengal has an important role to play in realising the objectives of the country's 'Look East Policy' and benefit from its warm and dynamic relationships with its south-eastern neighbours, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said on Sunday.
"Kolkata and the eastern region are uniquely placed to reap higher benefits arising out of the improved trade and investment ties the country is building with the ASEAN region," Mukherjee said inaugurating 176th annual general meeting of Calcutta Chamber of Commerce here.
He said since the state is strategically located and shares international boundaries with three countries in south Asia, it could expedite industrial and trade ties with them.
Describing West Bengal as "one of the fastest growing states in India" that was strategically located to attract foreign investment, Mukherjee believed the state could play an important role in opening the doors for investment and business opportunities for the whole of eastern and north-eastern India.
With the opening of the Nathula border in Sikkim for trade, Mukherjee said the entire eastern and north-eastern hinterland could be benefitted from increased trade relations with China.
"Our business and diplomatic ties will also be enhanced by the presence of consulates in Guangzhou (China) and Kolkata," Mukherjee said.
"Kolkata and the eastern region are uniquely placed to reap higher benefits arising out of the improved trade and investment ties the country is building with the ASEAN region," Mukherjee said inaugurating 176th annual general meeting of Calcutta Chamber of Commerce here.
He said since the state is strategically located and shares international boundaries with three countries in south Asia, it could expedite industrial and trade ties with them.
Describing West Bengal as "one of the fastest growing states in India" that was strategically located to attract foreign investment, Mukherjee believed the state could play an important role in opening the doors for investment and business opportunities for the whole of eastern and north-eastern India.
With the opening of the Nathula border in Sikkim for trade, Mukherjee said the entire eastern and north-eastern hinterland could be benefitted from increased trade relations with China.
"Our business and diplomatic ties will also be enhanced by the presence of consulates in Guangzhou (China) and Kolkata," Mukherjee said.
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