India seeks US partnership in high-end manufacturing

India has sought American collaboration in the manufacture of high-end products, innovation and education, even as it advised the world's largest economy to shun protectionism.

In his interaction with CEOs of US firms in sectors like banking, information technology, oil and gas, airports, public research and community college at Dallas,Texas yesterday, Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma, said  the two nations should "ideally collaborate in the manufacture of high-end products".

He also emphasized the need for collaboration in education sector.

Referring to the difficult times being faced by the global economy, Sharma said,"the US needs to look outwards, as any attempt at protectionism would be counter-productive. The US should not erect barriers to trade or movement of professionals."

The Indian IT industry, which largely services the US indutry, has been facing several protectionist measures like hike in visa fee and even problems in getting visas for professionals.

During January-November 2010, the total bilateral trade between the countries stood at $45.01 billion.