Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, embarked on a crucial two-day official visit to Zurich, Switzerland, from July 14 to 15. The visit aims to advance the implementation of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). This agreement is pivotal in bolstering trade relations between India and the four-nation EFTA bloc.
During his first day in Zurich, Goyal participated in significant meetings with key stakeholders. He engaged in high-level discussions with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), emphasizing India’s commitment to achieving fair and beneficial trade outcomes globally. They reviewed progress made since the WTO’s 13th Ministerial Conference, underscoring India’s stance on equitable trade among member nations.
Held an insightful interaction with representatives from the Swiss private sector & Swiss Federal Councillor @ParmelinG over breakfast hosted by @SECO_CH Ms. Helene Budliger Artieda.
Discussions focused on the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) & how the… pic.twitter.com/ZPNDhYQ07L
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) July 15, 2024
In addition to his WTO meeting, Minister Goyal interacted with the Indian diaspora in Zurich, acknowledging their substantial contributions to the Swiss economy and Indo-Swiss relations. He encouraged them to explore investment opportunities in India, highlighting the country’s promising business climate under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and the recent TEPA agreement.
Furthermore, Goyal met with prominent business figures and potential investors, including representatives from MSC Cargo. Discussions focused on fostering collaborations and identifying investment prospects across various sectors. This initiative aims to strengthen economic ties between India and Switzerland, leveraging mutual interests for sustainable growth.
Airport infrastructure and ancillary air services were also on the agenda as Goyal met with senior officials from Zurich Airport, led by Chairman Josef Felder. They explored opportunities for collaboration to enhance airport facilities in India, emphasizing the adoption of best practices and innovations to elevate the country’s aviation sector.
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Concluding his engagements, Minister Goyal convened with India’s WTO team in Geneva, alongside the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India at WTO and senior officials from the Department of Commerce. They delved into priority issues under WTO negotiations, strategizing India’s stance on global trade policies to ensure favorable outcomes for the nation.
Piyush Goyal’s visit underscores India’s proactive approach in advancing international trade partnerships, enhancing economic cooperation, and fostering strategic alliances with global stakeholders for mutual prosperity.
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