Swiss Economic Minister on week-long India visit

New Delhi, Apr 27: Heading a powerful business delegation, Switzerland Economic Minister Doris Leuthard begins her week-long India visit from tomorrow for improving access to the Indian market for Swiss firms and for promoting her country as a business destination.

Acompanied by representatives from around 25 Swiss firms, she will hold talks with the Minister of Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath during her April 28-May 3 visit Federal Councillor Leuthard will also hold discussions with Finance Minister P Chidambaram and Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal. The discussions will focus on appraising free trade and market access in India, Federal Department of Economic Affairs (FDEA) spokesperson said.

Incidentally, this year India and Switzerland celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship and Establishment between the two States. In 1948 Switzerland was the first country to sign such a treaty with India. The economic mission is also intended to mark this anniversary.

The spokesperson said the Federal Councillor will also use the opportunity to analyse the progress that has been made in the Mixed Commission on Intellectual Property.

The delegation led by the Swiss Minister will also visit Bangalore, Mysore and Mumbai to foster contacts with business and government officials.

About 150 Swiss companies employing around 41,000 people are presently functioning in India.

UNI