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Hellenic Federation of Enterprises (SEV)
and the Federation of Manufacturers of
India signed an
agreement on establishment of the Greek-Indian CEO’s Forum in
Mumbai on
14.11.2007. The Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Petros Doukas,
who is on an official visit to the country, was present at the
ceremony.
During the ceremony Mr. Thanasis Lavidas,
General Secretary and the Head of the International (Business) Affairs
of the SEV emphasised that the agreement represents acknowledgement of
the Protocol on Cooperation signed last February in New
Delphi, which
opens new prospects for development of opportunities for the Greek
business community.
During the ceremony of signing of the
agreement Mr. Lavidas pointed out that the aim of the Business Forum
is to make practical contribution in strengthening of bilateral
economic relations, in particular – increase of Greek investment in
India, which
amounts to just 4, and promotion of competitive Greek products in the
market of 1,2 bln consumers. That will contribute to the
transformation of the negative balance in both countries’ trade (more
than 10 times increase of export over import in
India ).
It is also noted in the relevant
announcement, that SEV can facilitate both Greek and Indian
cross-boarders businesses in their expansion, location of business
opportunities and in a pursuit of most suitable partners.
The forum can also raise and seek
solution to such issues as protection of intellectual rights,
simplification and enforcement of the law in the whole country, wider
liberation and facilitation of trade decreasing import duties and
simplifying the bureaucratic procedure for foreign investors.
Talking at the two business fora held in
Mumbai and
New Delhi , Mr.
Lavidas stressed the significance of the impressive development rate
of Indian economy (over 8,5%), the competitive cost of the local
manufacturing, highly educated executives, business
and trading culture in India , as well as the progress in science and
innovation technology.
The announcement states, that the
increase of the market capability of a large part of population is
worth noting, as well as the turn to the products of western culture.
At the same time we should not overlook the opportunity to develop
relations with allies for joint actions in other Asian markets.
The international community, - stressed
Mr. Lavidas, - is turning more and more attention to
India estimating
that in the coming decades it will turn into one of the three major
economic powers in the world.
Mr. Lavidas mentioned as well the
European identity of our country, its advantageous geopolitical
location - unifying economy and culture of the West and the East,
traditional friendly relations with the Arabic world, and Greeks’
talent in business.
In conclusion he called upon Indian
businessmen not to see
Greece as a small market of 11 mio consumers, but as a country
with an advanced infrastructure, dynamic and flexible businesses,
opportunities and prospects for development.
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