NEW DELHI (SW): In a bid to boost exports from Afghanistan and pursue new high-end markets for the country’s premier products, the US and India joined hands to host ‘Passage to Prosperity: India-Afghanistan Trade and Investment Show’ in New Delhi.
Abdullah Abdullah, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Unity Government (NUG) was scheduled to attend the event, but Arun Jaitley, Indian Finance Minister inaugurated the three-day fair. The goal of this show is to advance regional integration by strengthening economic ties between Afghanistan and India through partnerships. The event will highlight recently signed agreements, showcase Afghan companies and Indian innovation, and launch a forthcoming single-sector event series.
India’s Minister for Aviation Ashok Gajapathi Raju Pusapati stressed on the occasion that both Afghanistan and India need to consolidate their economic relations in consonance with their political, strategic and most importantly historic relations.
This show follows on the December 2016 Heart of Asia ministerial meeting when Indian Prime Minister Modi and Afghan President Ghani announced ambitious plans to stimulate trade between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi described Afghanistan as a critical economic hub between Central and South Asia, including connecting Afghanistan directly to India through the establishment of an air transport corridor and special economic zone near Afghan airports. President Ghani also set a target of increasing bilateral trade and investment to $10 billion in five years.
Up to 700 private sector companies and government officials from Afghanistan, Indiana and the U.S. are set to attend the event.
In his message, CEO Abdullah said the event illustrates the goal both Afghanistan and India seek to bring peace and prosperity to the region. He said it reinforces the ambitious plans that were announced by the two countries to stimulate trade and investment at the December Heart of Asia Conference.
Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley mentioned India’s increased commitment towards Afghanistan and investment in sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, industry, public health, education, human resource development etc.
The U.S. Embassy Kabul Special Chargé d'Affaires Ambassador Hugo Llorens expressed optimism that the ‘Passage to Prosperity: India-Afghanistan Trade and Investment Show’ will promote reforms, attract buyers and investors.
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