'Interdependence, key factor for success of globalisation'

Bangalore, Jan 18 (UNI) Union Commerce and Industries Minister Kamal Nath today observed that interdependence and effective cooperation between countries will be in the forefront of globalisation.

Speaking at a session 'Does the 21st century belong to Asia?' on the second day of the three-day CII Partnership Summit here, he said the next face of reforms should not be urban-centric, but aimed at ensuring that those living in the rural areas got the benefits of globalisation. Being India-specific, he said it would take at least five years to ensure that rural areas got the benefit of globalisation. ''We still have a long way to go to confront various problems such as employment and education,'' he felt.

Mr Kamal Nath predicted a shift in Research and Development from the West to the East in future and said India would be in the forefront with regard to clinical research. India should look up to the challenges, keeping in mind the younger generations and steer its economy by concentrating more on generating employment opportunities.

Geographically, India was strategically positioned at the centre of Asian continent. As the centre of economic growth shifted to the region, India could play a key role in shaping the future, he added.

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