ICTC urges HP to encourage trade with China

Shimla, Aug 5 (UNI) The India-China Trade Centre (ICTC) today called upon Himachal Pradesh's industries and people to come forward to encourage bilateral trade with China.

The ICTC, which facilities the business links between the two countries, organised a seminar on 'Growth of Himachal Pradesh with Experience from China and Economic Cooperation' at Kufri.

The seminar was attended by members of PHD Chamber of Commerce, representatives from HP government, Chamber of Chinese's Enterprises in India along with delegates from ICTC Speaking in the seminar, Mr Peng Gang, Economic and Commercial Councilor, Embassy of People's republic of China said hydro-power tourism and agriculture and infrastructure were some of the areas where China could invest in Himachal.

He said the two countries need to enhance border trade and encourage people to people contact.

''The two countries have 40 billion dollar trade in year 2008. By 2010 we would have 60 billion dollar trade and India would be the second trade partner after USA,'' he said.

He said China's entrepreneurs were coming in the field of steel, ferro-alloys, chemicals, IT, plastics, petro chemical and in general trade.

Himachal Pradesh Health Minister Rajiv Bindal said Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route through Himachal would help to develop tourism link between the two countries.

He also sought Chinese cooperation in minimising disasters from Parachhu floods by sharing information about the threat.

He said Chinese's Company 'Longjian Road and Bridge Limited has taken two infrastructure development projects, first Theog-Hatkoti and second Una Road which are amounting to Rs 356 crore .

UNI XC PS SY KN2120