Peace and stability must for economic growth: Consul Generals

Mumbai, Feb 28 (UNI) Peace and stability promotes trade, economic activities and growth that is imperative for a country like Afghanistan, Gul Hussain Ahmadi, Consul General of Afghanistan said here, Speaking at a meeting organized by the All India Association of Industries (AIAI) on 'World Understanding Day' in association with World Trade Centre (WTC) and Rotary Club of Mumbai yesterday, Mr Ahmadi said ''We are looking for peace and understanding in the neighbouring countries. We hope soon to have peace in our country.'' Peter Forby, Consul General of Australia, said it is important to have peaceful situation in the country for economic activities to promote trade and world understanding.

Herman Merckx, Consul General of Belgium, said one should emulate example of European Union, which commenced with the union of 15 countries and now had 27 countries as members with proper understanding, same code and same format of working.

The emergence of European Market is one such grand example of promoting peace and stability through trade and also having close relation and better understanding among neighbouring countries, he added.

Nabila I Farhana, Consul General of Arab Republic of Egypt, said ''Terrorism should be curbed at any cost as it is not an answer to any problem,'' a release issued by AIAI said.

Hyosuke Yasui, Consul General of Japan, said in spite of the First and Second World Wars and the resultant discord, the idea that only trade can eradicate animosity and bring prosperity amongst nations is receiving universal acceptance. ''If such events are held all over the world, it will have cumulative effect and all that is harsh and dissonant in the world will melt into one sweet harmony. Japan has learnt hard way to growth, but has been successful in economic development'', he added.

Vijay Kalantri, President, All India Association of Industries (AIAI), said the motto of trade and industry organization is to have world understanding for solidarity, peace and stability for better economic activities and trade.

Consul Generals of various countries such as Srilanka, Yemen, Italy, Indonesia, Madagascar, New Zealand, Haiti, Germany, Romania also attended the function.

UNI