(a) whether during the recent visit of the Afghanistan President to New Delhi discussion was held to restore Indo-Afghan trade;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the current status of the triangular trade and transit arrangement;
(c) whether any treaty was signed by the two ; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY( SHRI E.V.K.S. ELANGOVAN)
(a) & (b): India and Afghanistan have signed a Preferential Trade Agreement since 6th March 2003. Two-way trade between India and Afghanistan has increased from US $ 79.23 million in 2002-2003 to US $ 185.51 million in 2003-2004.
President Karzai of Afghanistan, during his recent visit to India, emphasized the need to enhance the trade between the two countries. He also invited the private sector to invest in Afghanistan. There was no discussion on triangular trade and transit arrangement.
(c ): No, Sir.
(d): Does not arise.