Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is visiting Switzerland to advance commitments under India’s free trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). This includes discussions with industry leaders to promote India’s trade and economic interests.
Goyal met Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the WTO, in Zurich. They discussed ongoing negotiations and progress since the 13th Ministerial Conference. Goyal emphasized India’s dedication to achieving meaningful outcomes and fair trade among WTO member nations.
The visit follows the signing of a free trade agreement between India and EFTA, which includes Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. EFTA aims to increase foreign direct investments in India by $100 billion over the next 15 years and create 1 million direct jobs through these investments.
Additionally, Minister Goyal met with Diego Aponte, Group President of MSC Cargo, to discuss potential collaborations with the Indian industry. The focus was on expanding container shipping and Indian flag vessels, enhancing India’s shipping and logistics sectors.
Goyal also engaged with the Indian diaspora in Switzerland, acknowledging their contributions to the Swiss economy and urging them to invest in India. He emphasized the potential for economic collaboration and growth under the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement.
Source: India Narrative