Indonesian envoy calls on Punjab CM to set up agri JV

A high-powered delegation led by Indonesian Ambassador Andi M Galib met Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal in Chandigarh. The delegation evinced keen interest in setting up joint ventures in agro-processing, agriculture and power from non-conventional sources of energy.

Badal said that Punjab had a diversified agricultural economy and it was the major producer of food grains in the country. He hoped that the state’s economy could be benefitted through Indonesian expertise in the field of agro-processing and hi-tech farming.

Badal said that he looked forward to forging an alliance with major Indonesian industrial units to add value addition to agriculture produce, and ensure better returns to Punjab’s farmers.

The Chief Minister assured the visiting Indonesian ambassador of full support and cooperation for setting up joint ventures in the state.

Galib said that Indian-Indonesian bilateral trade rose from $4 billion (in 2005) to $10.5 billion (in 2009) within a span of four years after signing the strategic partnership.

“We need to diversify and grow our trade and it is a two-way process,” Galib said.

He urged Badal to find out modalities in consultation with the Indian Government to directly export wheat and rice to Indonesia from Punjab and also showed keen interest in the handicrafts, handloom besides gems and jewellery.