Question : BILATERAL TRADE RELATIONS

(a) whether a number of trade delegations have visited India during 1999-2000 for development and promotion of bilateral trade relations;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the outcome of each such visit, country-wise;

(c) whether similar number of Indian Trade delegations which visited the number of friendly countries for development and strengthening of bilateral trade and economic cooperation; and

(d) he action plan formulated and the fresh strategies adopted for developing bilateral trade with number of friendly countries during the current year?

MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

(SHRI MURASOLI MARAN)

(a) and (c) Yes sir, a number of trade delegations have visited India during the year 1999-2000 and similarly, Indian Trade Delegations have visited a number of friendly countries for development and promotion of bilateral trade relations and economic cooperation.

(b) A statement is laid on the table of the House.

(d) For developing bilateral trade with all the countries. meeting of Joint Commissions, sub-groups, working groups and buyer seller meets and fairs are being held on a regular basis to discuss various issues regarding trade. To understand the problems at primary level frequent exchange of business delegations is also one of the strategies. The trade enquiries as well as other information which are helpful for the trading communities of either side are given due attention with the help of representatives of our Mission in the country. The Govt. of India works towards the improvement and expansion of trade which is a continuing process.