India, Finland to cooperate on S

New Delhi, Mar 26 (UNI) India and Finland have signed an agreement, aimed at providing a broad-based framework of cooperation in research, development and innovation in Science and Technology.

The agreement was signed by Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal and Finnish Economic Affairs Minister Mauri Pekkarinen in Helsinki yesterday, an official statement said today.

On the occasion, Mr Sibal called for setting up an innovation industrial R&D fund that would enable technology access to the markets of the either countries.

Mr Pekkarinen termed Mr Sibal's visit a big event in the relations between India and Finland.

During his visit, Mr Sibal would also call on Finnish Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen and Education Minister Sari Sarkomaa, besides visiting a number of leading research institutions.

Finland has one of the highest investments in R&D as a percentage of its GDP among the OECD countries.

It is known for its environment-friendly, innovative technological capabilities which, official sources said, could be beneficial for India's booming economic development.

UNI YJ SY BD1855