Nath calls for enhancing trade with Kyrgyzstan

New Delhi, Feb 6 (UNI) Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath has called for improving bilateral trade between India and Kyrgyzstan.

During a meeting with Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Ednan Karabaev here today, Mr Nath pointed out that relations between the two countries are traditionally close and have over the years been reinforced by close political rapport and meaningful economic cooperation.

The two sides discussed steps in enhancing trade in food processing, textiles, agriculture, science and technology, tourism, chemical and pharmaceutical sectors.

Bilateral trade between the two countries stood at 38 million dollars during 2006-07.

Pointing out the difficulties faced by the Indian businessmen in obtaining visa for Kyrgyzstan, Mr Nath told the Kyrgyz Minister about the excellent investment climate in India and the opportunities available in the field of trade and business.

The Commerce Minister also emphasised that the two countries can share their expertise in the IT sector and Kyrgyzstan stands to gain from ''globally acknowledged'' Indian skills in the field.

The export basket to Kyrgyzstan comprises of RMG wool, RMG cotton including accessories, leather goods, handicrafts, machinery and instruments, cosmetics and toiletries while raw wool, metal products, raw silk, crude minerals, Metalifers ores and metal scrap are major imports.

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