Finland PM for closer ties with India

Mumbai, Feb 6 (UNI) Finland Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen today called for closer Indo-Finnish ties stating that his country could act as India's gateway to the European Union.

Mr Vanhanen, who called on Maharashtra Governor S M Krishna this morning, discussed bilateral trade between the two countries. Climate change and energy issues were also on the agenda. He said the distance between Delhi and Helsinki was just about six hours and Finland could act as India's gateway to the European Union.

He evinced keen interest in various socio-economic issues faced by the state and the metropolis including population, education and transportation.

Welcoming the visiting dignitary to Maharashtra, Mr Krishna said the state was one of the most prized investment destinations and nerve centre of trade in India. ''Vibrant economy, industrious people and abundant availability of human resources make Maharashtra an ideal place for investment,'' he added.

Mr Vanhanen, a former journalist, noted that India has made strong progress during the last few years. ''The development and economic growth of India presents an attractive atmosphere for Finnish business community to invest in India. Finland has the know how and expertise especially in utilisation of non-conventional renewable energy sources, environment technology and solutions for sustainable development,'' he pointed out.

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