Kochi, Feb 21 (UNI) Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Friday declared Kerala as an attractive destination for investments and offered the Centre’s full support to the state in realising its full potential in terms of global investments.
“Look at what all Kerala offers to investors. Whether it is tourism, whether it is manufacturing, whether it is logistics. In every sphere, Kerala is at the forefront of development,’ he said addressing the two-day Invest Kerala Global Summit which began here
The Minister went on to praise Kerala for all that it brings to the table for investors. “The rhythm of Kathakali can captivate audiences, the wisdom of Ayurveda can rejuvenate everyone,” he added.
Goyal said he was surprised to learn that the state has 51 five-star hotels. It is a matter of pride that tourists from all over the world are flocking to Kerala.
The Minister emphasised that infrastructure plays an important role in industrial development. Kerala, he noted, continues to promote new and better infrastructure. He said the state’s maritime economy also continues to grow at an impressive speed.
“Today, the entire country is working with the spirit of cooperative federalism. All states are working in tandem with the Centre in the spirit of collaboration, and, of course, there must be some competition also,’ he added.
Underlining that it is only when the states grow, that the country can grow, he said adding that India contributes nearly 16 per cent to the growth of the world economy.
The minister also spoke about the trade deals signed by India with the UAE and Bahrain, which he said, will also help states like Kerala. India will soon start discussing a trade pact with the Donald Trump administration in the United States that will potentially be a ‘mother of all deals”, Goyal said.
India, the minister said, is also in talks with the European Union, the United Kingdom, Oman and some other countries for trade pacts. “This is the time to not miss the boat and invest in India, invest in Kerala, because those who miss the boat may be left behind at the shore,’ he added.
