“Afghanistan and India have enjoyed traditional ties in the spheres of politics, culture and social interaction. The need of the hour is to revitalize these relations by stepping up business ties. The two nations should look forward to sustainable and long term connectivity. Afghanistan pledges preferential treatment to Indian businesses in its economy for the same”, said H.E. Mr. Shaida Mohammad Abdali, Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan during an interactive meeting on “Trade Opportunities in Afghanistan” jointly organised by MVIRDC World Trade Centre (WTC) and All India Association of Industries (AIAI).
The five particular areas of fruitful interaction between India and Afghanistan include industrial development, construction, export promotion, agriculture and mining. Afghanistan shall endow preferential treatment at the government, societal and public levels to Indian investments in the economy through government support, land ownership, tax incentives, logistical support, liberal visa regime, investment protection and business security, Mr. Abdali said.
Mr. Abdali proposed the signing of an MOU between MVIRDC World Trade Centre and All India Association of Industries with the export promotion organizations and chambers of commerce of Afghanistan.
Mr. Vijay Kalantri, Vice-Chairman, MVIRDC World Trade Centre and President, All India Association of Industries said that India and Afghanistan hold cordial relations. India is the sixth largest investor in Afghanistan with net investments worth US$ 2 billion. India’s exports goods worth US $ 474.25 million to Afghanistan while importing goods worth US $ 208.77 million.
Source : Sachin Murdeshwar
