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Information tech, software -- More co-operation with Cyprus on cards

Our Bureau

NEW DELHI, Nov. 22

INDIA and Cyprus have resolved to co-operate in the area of information technology and computer software, including software development, hardware supplies in view of the good prospects in this field.

This is indicated in the protocol of the Fourth Session of the Joint India-Cyprus Committee on Economic, Trade, Scientific, Technical and Industrial Cooperation which was signed by the Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Mr L.V. Saptharishi on be half of the Government and by Mr Panikos Pouros, Permanent Secretary in the Planning Bureau, Government of Cyprus.

On bilateral trade, both sides recognised that the current volume was not commensurate with the potential and agreed to diversify and enhance the trade through various means, including joint venture, production co-operation and transfer of technology.

The major advantages of Cyprus as an international business centre and as a base for marketing of Indian products to European, West Asian and African countries was noted particularly in view of the expected entry of Cyprus into the European Union.

A proposal was also made by the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry for organising an Indian Handicrafts week in Cyprus.

Both sides also agreed to explore co-operation in the marketing and production in Cyprus of jewellery with precious and semi-precious stones from India for export to West Asian and European markets, and development and processing of raw materials and min erals, besides exchange of technology and knowhow in high-

tech areas. Cyprus also agreed to advise its garment manufacturing industry to consider co-operation with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).

Indo-Zambia joint committee: India and Zambia also identified several potential sectors for pushing up trade and investment which encompass the small scale industries, information technology, agriculture, infrastructure, including telecom, transport and power and the pharmaceutical sector.

This is indicated in the agreed minutes of the second meeting of the India-Zambia Joint Trade Committee which concluded here this evening.

The agreed minutes were signed in the presence of the Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, Mr Omar Abdullah and Mr Jazzman Chikwakwa, Minister for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Government of Zambia.

Noting that one of the constraints to the growth in bilateral trade was the information gap, the committee recommended greater participation in each other's fairs and exhibitions, besides identification of the potential sectors for expansion of trade and investment.

Bilateral trade between the two stood at $41.32 million (Rs 179.05 crore) in 1999-2000. However, there had been a decline in trade since 1997-98.