What Actions is Piyush Goyal Taking to Strengthen Economic Relations with France and Italy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Piyush Goyal is on an official visit to France and Italy.
- Meetings focus on enhancing Indo-French economic partnerships.
- Participation in WTO and OECD forums is part of the agenda.
- High-level discussions with international trade ministers are scheduled.
- Expectations to advance India-EU FTA negotiations.
New Delhi, June 1 (NationPress) Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, has officially embarked on his visit to France and Italy, showcasing India’s unwavering dedication to enhancing strategic and economic relationships with crucial European allies and promoting a collective vision for robust and inclusive global development.
Over the span of three days in France, Minister Goyal is set to engage in bilateral talks, notably with Eric Lombard, Minister of Economy, and Laurent Saint-Martin, French Trade Minister, as per the Commerce Ministry’s announcement.
The agenda will center on fortifying the Indo-French economic collaboration and identifying fresh opportunities for boosting trade and investment partnerships.
As part of this diplomatic mission, the minister plans to meet influential leaders from prominent French corporations including Vicat, Total Energies, L'Oreal, Renault, Valeo, EDF, and ATR.
The visit will include the 'India-France Business Round Table' and the 'India-France CEO Forum', aimed at fostering conversations among key industry players from both nations.
Minister Goyal will also take part in an informal assembly of WTO Ministers during the OECD Ministerial Council Meeting. In this pivotal venue, he will interact with global counterparts addressing essential multilateral trade topics and representing India's viewpoints and priorities.
At the forum, the Commerce Minister will conduct a series of high-level bilateral discussions with significant international partners. This includes the UK's Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds; Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong; and Saudi Arabia's Minister of Commerce, Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Kasabi.
He will also connect with Israel’s Minister for Trade and Investment, Nir Barkat; Nigeria’s Minister for Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole OON; and Brazil's Foreign Minister, Mauro Luis Iecker Vieira, as stated by the ministry.
According to the ministry, “These discussions aim to enhance strategic economic cooperation and build mutually advantageous partnerships across various regions. They are also expected to significantly propel India-EU FTA negotiations.”
After his engagements in France, the Union Minister will continue his official visit to Italy.