India to sign International Coffee Agreement, 2007

New Delhi, June 26 (UNI) The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for signing and ratification of the International Coffee Agreement, 2007 by India, which is expected to give it a say in issues related to the commodity.

Further, India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom had been empowered to sign the instrument in this regard and deposit it with the depositary, International Coffee Organisation, London, on behalf of the government, Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office Prithviraj Chavan announced here.

"India's acceptance of the International Coffee Agreement 2007 will be essential to maintain the International Coffee Organisation as a forum for international cooperation on coffee matters," he told reporters after a meeting of the Cabinet.

As the country had significant interest in coffee export, membership was expected to benefit it.

India, a founding member of the organisation, has contributed immensely to its growth and stature which is widely recognised.

The Government had been approving India's continued membership in the International Coffee Agreement from time to time. The country's accession to the last International Coffee Agreement, 2001 has been extended up to September 30.

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