Srinagar, Jun 10: A delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry held an interactive meeting with the Ambassador of France, Alexandre Zeigler, Jean-Marc Fenet, Minister Counsellor for Economic & Financial Affairs and other members of the French Embassy at Hotel Taj Vivanta over Iftar dinner hosted by the KCC&I in honour of the French Ambassador.
The delegation was led by the Senior Vice President, Nasir Hamid Khan and included Muzzaffer Majid Jan, Vijay Dhar, Rauf Punjabi, Mustaq Wani, Fayaz Ahanger and Majid Aslam Wafai.
The Kashmir Chamber appreciated the visit of the Ambassador of France to Kashmir and hoped that this visit would result in the relaxation of negative advisories vis-à-vis Kashmir and development of trade ties. Alexandre Zeigler was apprised about the historic relationship Kashmir shared with France and how much the traditional Kashmiri Handicrafts used to be in demand in France even in the 18th Century.
Detailed discussions were held about important sectors like Handicrafts, Tourism, Education, Solar and Hydro Power Generation, Industry, Agriculture and others. The Kashmir Chamber brought the abundance of natural resources in Kashmir requiring technological support and exploration to the attention of the visitors. It was felt that proper utilization of these resources could boost our economy by unlocking the rich potential of our resources. The Kashmir Chamber also proposed facilitation of exchange programs, study tours and marketing exhibitions for various sectors. The Kashmir Chamber requested Alexandre Zeigler to consider keeping a special quota for our State with regard to scholarships for students. The French Delegation showed a keen interest in the proposals put forth by the KCC&I and expressed their desire to work towards lending their expertise and resources for the exploration and development of various sectors of the local economy. Alexandre Zeigler stated that the possibility of tie-ups between local entrepreneurs and French Companies giving access to the vast French Markets would be explored immediately.
With a view of ensuring regular follow-up and interaction, the KCC&I proposed the setting up of a joint working group under the name of Kashmir-French Economic Group for further exploration of areas and sectors of mutually beneficial interest which could open new avenues of employment and entrepreneurship for the business community of Jammu and Kashmir.
