Anand Sharma inaugurates India Show in Switzerland

Baselworld (Switzerland), Mar 26(ANI): Union Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma has inaugurated the India Show in Switzerland along with Swiss Home Minister Didier Burkhalter.

The India Show is coordinated by the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council and has a participation of over 60 companies showcasing Indian design and craftsmanship in Switzerland.

Sharma on the occasion stated that "out of 12 diamonds processed in the world, 11 are processed in India".

"India is the global leader in the diamonds and coloured gemstone sector, and is looking forward to greater investment by the world's top watch and jewellery brands into the country," Sharma said.

After the recent inauguration of the Bharat Diamond Bourse in Mumbai, India now boasts of state-of-the-art infrastructure in diamond trading and is acknowledged world leader in the diamond cutting and polishing sector.

During his stay in the country, Sharma also met Swiss Minister of Economy, Johann Schneider Ammann, in Berne.

Both Ministers discussed a range of issues including quality market access for Indian pharmaceuticals, Doha Round, and progress of the India-EFTA BTIA negotiations.

Sharma invited Swiss participation in the agro sector and in providing training in skills to the large young Indian population.

He later reiterated role of Indian generics in providing good quality but affordable medical care to Asian, South American and African societies.

Sharma also held bilateral talks with Swiss Home Minister, Burkhalter, where both Ministers resolved to consolidate the existing bilateral engagement between India and Switzerland. (ANI)