India for greater trade with Caribbean countries

New Delhi, Jun 4 (UNI) India has urged Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) living in Caribbean countries to explore new areas of bilateral investment in sectors such as energy, mining, agriculture and IT.

Speaking to a select group of businessmen of Indian origin in Suriname, Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi today assured India's full support for closer trade and economic relations with the country.

At the India Arrival Day celebration, organised by the Global Organisation of PIOs speech, he commended the contribution of PIOs to the unity and prosperity of Suriname while keeping alive their ancestral link of culture and language.

Suriname Vice-President Ramdien Sadjoe also praised the role of the PIOs in the economic development and unity of the country, an official release here said.

Before arriving at Suriname, Mr Ravi visited St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and Trinidad and Tobago.

During his visit to SVG, he attended the India Arrival Day as the Chief Guest.

He also had a meeting with St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves who sought India's help in agro-processing, education and IT.

During his visit to Trinidad and Tobago, Mr Ravi attended the 162nd anniversary of the Indian Arrival Day celebrations in Port of Spain.

He spoke about the tribulations faced by those who came to that country as indentured labourers and despite all the hardships managed to preserve their culture and traditions.

''This culture now forms the heritage of Trinidad and Tobago,'' he said.

Mr Ravi also held a meeting with Trinidad and Tobago President George Maxwell Richards, Prime Minister Patrick Manning and several other Ministers and exchanged views on matters of bilateral interest.

The President raised the issue of greater cooperation in education and stressed the need for efforts to bridge the trade deficit.

The Prime Minister noted the contribution of Indian investment in the economic development of Trinidad and Tobago.

UNI