Indo-Japan dialogue on CEPA on fast-track; Nath

New Delhi, Aug 21 (UNI) Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath today said India and Japan are engaged to conclude the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) at the earliest.

Addressing a 400-strong Japanese business delegation here this evening, he said, ''The dialogue is on the fast-track and we expect to have the agreement in place by the designated time.'' Expressing optimism at the growing Indo-Japan economic relations, Japanese delegation leader Fujio Mitarai said he looked forward to a fruitful business engagement with Indian business and industry leaders.

Pointing out the strategic importance of engagement of business leaders from both sides, Mr Nath said the two governments will require their active participation to make it successful. ''It is your support and dynamism that will propel the economic relations of India and Japan,'' he added.

Besides officials of the two country, the meeting was also attended by the representatives of Indian business chambers, including CII, FICCI and Assocham.

Japan is the fifth major investor in India with cumulative inflow of 2.58 billion dollars since 1991.

Indian exports to Japan in 2006-07 were 2812.83 million dollars, while imports were 4,560.84 million dollars.

UNI