Modi showcases Gujarat buisness potential before Russian CEOs

New Delhi, Jul 6 (UNI) Showcasing Gujarat's rich tapestry of culture and congenial investment climate before Russian captains of industry and CEOs of tour and travel companies, visiting state Chief Minister Narendra Modi invited them to participate in 'Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors' Summit, 2007' and forge strong economic ties for mutual benefits.

Leading a high-level official delegation, Mr Modi visited Astrakhan region and signed an agreement on Protocol of Cooperation between the State of Gujarat and Astrakhan Region of the Russian Federation for another five years.

The objectives of the protocol are to develop closer ties in the peroleum and hydrocarbons sector, Science and Technology, education, tourism, trade and Commerce and deepen cultural relations.

Mr Modi held detailed discussions with Astrakhan Governor A. Zhilkin, the Deputy Governor and some ministers to explore areas of coperation in the port and transport sectors in for mutual benefits.

''There are enormous possibilities for cargo business between Russia and ports of Gujarat,'' said Mr Modi, who also held one one one meeting with industrialists of Ashtrakhan.

Business opportunities in areas like gems and jewellery, super market, tourism industry, construction activities and ship-bulding were also discussed during the meeting.

Mr Modi also visited Ashtrakhan State University and State Technical University and monitored the ship building unit.

Prominent Russian tour and travel companies showed keen interest to jointly promote tourism sector in both Gujarat and Astrakhan.

Mr Modi met captains of various tourist companies like Astore in Tour, Tourist Czar and International Tourist Sputnic in Ashtrakhan to explore the possibilities of promoting tourism in both the regions.

The chief minister also extended invitation to leading companies to visit Gujarat during the Navratri and the International Kite Flying Festival and 'Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors' Summit-2007'.

During his stay in Russia, Mr Modi also visited Olya port and the Volga river.

The delegation members, who accompanied Mr Modi, included Mr.

H.K. Das, Vice-Chairman and CEO of Gujarat Maritime board, Mr.Kishor Rao, Secretary, Animal Husbandry and Cow Breeding, Mr Pankaj Kumar, Addl. Principal Secretary to CM, Mr. Gautam Adani, CMD, Adani Export, Mr. Sudhir Mehta, CMD, Torrent Power Ltd., and Mr. Parimal Nathwani, President, Reliance Industries Ltd.

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