By IANS,
New Delhi : If sewers in Delhi stop overflowing, and if commuting gets easier here, we might have Russia to thank for it. The two capital cities of Delhi and Moscow Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in eleven key areas, for greater cooperation in a range of areas over the next three years.
Among the areas covered by the MoU are culture, healthcare, education, transport management, trade, housing and utilities, according to a release.
The MoU was signed by Delhi Minister for Urban Development Arvinder Singh and Sergey Cheremin, minister in charge of the international economic relations, Moscow city government.
“The MOU will facilitate intense partnership and cooperation between the two governments for three years (2012-2015) during which both parties shall exchange delegations and groups of experts with the aim of establishing direct contact between the two cities in areas like sewage management, transport management, and most importantly, affordable housing for the urban poor, where Moscow has extensive experience and expertise,” the statement said.
“Russia has been the closest friend of India, and there are close cultural ties between the two countries. This agreement will pave the way for collaboration in many areas where both cities will draw benefits from the expertise of the other,” said Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit.
“India has always been extremely important as a strategic partner to Russia. And Delhi as capital of the great nation has always attracted our people. We believe that a vibrant relationship between the world’s two major cities can generate new ideas,” said Cheremin.
The Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) is organising “Days of Moscow” festival in the national capital. The three-day event began Friday, and will see many cultural, business and fashion events.