Sheikh Saud holds talks with Indian minister on expanding bilateral cooperation

During the talks, both sides hailed the rich cultural and historic relationship that exists between UAE and India and pledged to work closely to further strengthen bilateral relations between Ras Al Khaimah and India, which have witnessed much progress during recent times.

Sheikh Saud said that there is immense scope for increased business and trade cooperation between UAE and India, both of which shared historically strong trade relations and long maritime connections. "The opening up of the Indian economy during the last decade has made it a key global player and the rapid growth of both our economies has unveiled new opportunities for greater cooperation between the two countries," he added.

Sheikh Saud said that Ras Al Khaimah is keen to explore investment opportunities in India across various sectors and noted that there has been a steady stream of Indian companies who have set up operations in Ras Al Khaimah as well. "I am particularly glad that Indian companies who have set up bases in RAK are doing well and have found the Emirate to be a good place to do business," he said.

Stressing the need to further enhance cooperation between the two countries, Pallam Raju said, "We look forward to strengthen existing ties and to leverage on the great success UAE has had in diversifying its resources and in developing outstanding infrastructure." The Minister said that both countries should explore cooperation in knowledge- intensive sectors like information technology, business process outsourcing and biotechnology, which offered great scope for successful joint ventures.

Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAK Finance Department and RAK Free Trade Zone, Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAK Civil Aviation, Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Venu Rajamani, Consul General of India and Dr. Khater Massaad, Advisor to RAK Crown Prince and CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (RAKIA) were present at the meeting.