By IANS,
New Delhi : Around 40 stalls and exhibitions from India and various African countries showcasing opportunities in infrastructure, automobiles, clean energy solutions, handicrafts and tourism greeted some 1,100-odd delegates who attended this year’s India-Africa Project Partnership conclave here.
“There were around 40 stalls from African countries, Indian companies and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) stalls on various fields like leather, clean energy and hydrocarbons,” an official of the event organiser, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), told IANS.
Some of the major attractions at the exhibitions pavilion were stalls from various African countries showcasing colorful textiles featuring vibrant prints, leather products, various handicrafts like ceramics printed with ethnic African scenery, authentic tribal face masks, wall-hangings and paintings depicting rivers and waterfalls of the various parts of the continent.
Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Central African Republic and Uganda pressed hard to woo Indian delegates to visit exotic locations of their country. Malawi showcased its agricultural products including rums, gin and vodka produce calling it one of ‘The finest from Africa.’ Kenya showcased its 39 golf courses to woo sports lovers.
Gabon sought to hardsell its new special economic zones (SEZ) with incentives like 10 year tax holiday and exemption from value added tax (VAT) levy.
From India, major firms like Tata International registered their presence with their various products including bi-cycle brand Stryder. Kirloskar Pumping Solutions, Mahindra and Mahindra and Sonalika tractors were other major firms were also present.
CSIR also showcased various initiatives in training, clean technologies, trainer aircraft and hydrocarbons.
“This is teh first time that CSIR is participating in the event. The stalls and exhibition assume importance because they help in showcasing what all opportunities there are and also provides a face to face platform,” CII director general Chandrajit Banerjee told IANS.
Banerjee also informed the conclave that more than 200 projects worth almost $30 billion in sectors like infrastructure, mining, agriculture, telecom and healthcare were discussed at the three-day event.
Over 1,100 delegates, including 36 ministers from India and several African countries, participated in the event which was organised by the CII in partnership with the government of India and the Export Import (Exim) Bank.