Tuesday, October 02, 2007

North East India Trade & Investment Opportunities Week: Day 1



Unconfirmed Reports suggests that Dr. Chamling has decided to skip Bangkok meet

photos:Queen Sirikit National convention center in Bangkok

Bangkok,October 2, 2007: Queen Sirikit National convention center in Bangkok witnessed a rare event which seeks to strengthen ties between India and Thailand. The initiative has been taken up by Union Minister for Development of North East Region (DONER), Mr. Mani Shankar Aiyar. The day started with inauguration followed by press conference where Five out of eight Chief Ministers of the North East States along with the senior Cabinet Ministers of Assam, Sikkim and Tripura were present. Mr. Aiyar stressed on the fact that for the first time in the history of diplomatic relations in Indian and Thailand, such a huge delegation of about 200 high level officials and businessmen has come to Thailand. There were questions from correspondents on the expectations of investment, about the Trilateral Highway project and about the dedicated airlines connecting Bangkok and the capital cities of the NE states of India. The answers to all these questions were in positive and showed optimism of Mani shankar Aiyar and his Thai counterpart the Commerce Minister, Krirk -Krai Jirapaet. On the question of insurgency in Northern Eastern States, Mr. Aiyar said that there is no insurgency or terrorism existing in the region except in some of the pockets, which is the scenario everywhere in the world. He also added that he has no complaint from the media. Almost 50 exhibitors from different areas are showcasing their products and are looking for either investors or trade partners. India is seeking investment from Thailand in various sectors that include infrastructure, energy, food processing, tourism and hospitality, handloom and handicrafts, rubber and bamboo. The inaugural session was followed by Ethnic Fashion Show & Cultural Program "COLOURS OF PARADISE" and gala dinner at Retro Live Cafe.