US keen to forge biz ties in smaller Indian cities

US Commerce Secretary John Bryson today said his country is keen to forge new business ties, particularly in infrastructure, in smaller Indian cities that will create jobs for both the countries.

"Different people in each of India's regions have unique perspectives and plans, and I look forward to finding new ways to help US businesses partner with leaders in places like Jaipur in order to strengthen India's infrastructure, drive innovation and promote more prosperity and more jobs for both of our countries," Bryson said during a visit to Jaipur Foot, a well-known prosthetic limb fitting organisation here.

Bryson also highlighted the partnership between the two countries in successfully applying innovative technologies for prosthesis manufacturing.

An example of low-cost engineering and a successful Indian business model, Jaipur Foot -- which was established by D R Mehta in 1975 -- provides artificial limbs, calipers, wheelchairs, hand-paddled tricycles, crutches and related aids and appliances to about 65,000 disabled in a year.

Bryson is leading 16 US companies on a business development mission in the country seeking US export opportunities in India's rapidly expanding infrastructure sector and to promote investment opportunities in America.

Last night, Bryson and other delegates met with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot here and discussed development in infrastructure, energy and other sectors.