New Delhi today assured the economic partners across the world that investment environment in the country is friendly. Talking to reporters in New Delhi today, Commerce Minister Anand Sharma said that the government has taken enough measures to welcome investors into the country.
Reacting to the US President Barack Obama's remarks that India must carry out difficult economic reforms, Mr Sharma said he has every right to convey what his perceptions are but the policy making is a sovereign decision and India's FDI policy regime is investor-friendly.
The Minister exuded confidence that India will remain one of the attractive destinations for investment in the next three years as most of the sectors are open for FDI. Mr Sharma said the government is committed to ensuring that investment sentiment is revived.
The Commerce Minister said, the government is taking every possible step to ensure that more and more domestic goods are exported so that they find markets abroad. Expressing concern over the country's widening trade deficit with China, Mr Sharma asked Beijing to provide more access to Indian goods and services to bridge the gap. He said sectors like IT and pharmaceuticals should get better access in the Chinese markets so that the gap can be closed or reduced.
The Minister said that he has taken up the issue with the authorities there. He added that Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has already discussed the issue with his Chinese counterpart, Wen Jiabao.
Replying to a query regarding inflation, Mr Sharma said that it is cyclic and expressed the hope that monsoon will revive so that prices of food articles do not go up.
Earlier, Mr Sharma inaugurated a fair named Tex Trends 2012 that brings together the best in India apparel and accessories, fabrics, handicrafts, woolen products and carpets all under one roof. Our correspondent reports, the 3-day fair, which is the biggest ever event featuring a blend of traditional and modern textiles, has over 400 domestic exhibitors and about 2000 global buyers displaying diverse range of products.
Buyers from countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Spain, Brazil and South Africa are participating in the fair. The exhibition being held at Shakuntalam theatre, Pragati Maidan comprises activities like fashion shows, seminars and award ceremonies. The event features in handmade silk, silk sarees, blankets, shawls, handloom clothing, curtains and bed covers.
The fair also showcases cane and bamboo handicrafts, jute specialities, packing materials, shopping and carry bags.
