New forum to connect network of emerging economies

NEW DELHI: Two leading think tanks have joined hands to launch a forum for businesses in emerging economies to help identify new opportunities and forge new relationships to address common challenges.

The Growth Net, a joint initiative of The Aspen Institute India and strategic advisory firm Smadja & Smadja, is set to be launched at a conference on Sunday by External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid.

"Growth Net's focus is on key challenges including national security, finance, clean energy, trade, investment, consumers, skills and talent," said Gautam Thapar, chairman of Aspen Institute India.

He said the concerns flagged by the forum were relevant for every emerging economy across Asia, Africa and Latin America.

"The Growth Net will connect this network of emerging economies and enable it to grow and be of mutual advantage," he said.

National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon is scheduled to deliver a keynote address on the security challenges faced by the countries on Monday.

Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Hang Lung Group Limited, S Ramadorai, Vice Chairman of Tata Consultancy Services, and Cherie Nursalim, Executive Director of GITI Group are the co-chairs for The Growth Net.

Speakers from 17 countries and delegates from 25 countries are expected to participate in the three-day conference.