Terrorism a foremost threat to international peace, security: VP Naidu

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday said that terrorism is one of the foremost threats to international peace and security, adding that India and Romania have resolved to fight it in all forms and manifestations.

"Terrorism is one of the foremost threats to international peace and security. We resolved to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It is a global challenge that requires a global response," Naidu said after his interaction with Prime Minister of Romania, Viorica Dancila.

Elaborating on his "cordial" interaction with the Romanian Prime Minister, Naidu said "The mutual desire to explore new areas to deepen our long-standing relations was expressed. Today, we oversaw the signing of Memorandum of Understanding on Tourism between the two countries in order to facilitate tourism on both sides and increase people to people connectivity."

The Vice President's talk with Prime Minister Dancila was focused on strengthening trade and investment relationship covering sectors such as ICT, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, infrastructure, logistics, agri-foods, tourism.

"Our economies are complementary. Our cooperation can lead to faster growth of our economies. We intend to deepen and diversify economic and technological cooperation between our two countries. India-Romania annual bilateral trade has risen to USD 810 million in 2017-18, a 40 percent increase over last year (USD 575 million). This is a positive development in our bilateral economic relations," Naidu said.

Naidu said that the Indian government has decided to open an Ayush Information cell in Romania to disseminate more information about Ayurveda, encourage Ayurveda practice, conduct workshops with experts to offer ayurvedic treatments for preventive, curative and palliative purposes.

"Our countries have agreed that we shall jointly work for an early and balanced conclusion of India-EU-BTIA (India-European Union Broad-based Trade & Investment Agreement). Easier facilitation of visa promotes people-to-people contact and business. Our governments should work towards facilitating easy mobility of professionals on both sides. I am glad that Romania has decided to open a Consulate in Chennai," Naidu mentioned.