Collaboration on a range of themes, from technology to alternative energy, were discussed this morning, when Minister of Commerce, Donville Inniss, met with India???s newly appointed High Commissioner to Barbados, Murugesan Subashini, this morning at the Ministry???s headquarters in Reef Road, St. Michael.
In his remarks, Minister Inniss said: ???India is a country we have to have a deeper relationship with???[and] Information and Communication Technology is an area where there is great scope for partnership???.
He added that India, being a leader in that field, was well placed to offer intensive overseas-based programmes to locals or provide technical assistance through experts who would come to Barbados.
The Commerce Minister also noted that establishing a Double Taxation Agreement would facilitate beneficial investment opportunities for the Asian nation. He added that the creation of bilateral agreements, not only with Barbados but throughout CARICOM, would also be favourable, a point which the High Commissioner supported.
With regard to alternative energy sources, Ms. M. Subashini explained that her country???s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy continued to work towards sustainability.
She said her country imported 70 per cent of its energy requirements, but noted they were trying to be self-sufficient because of the huge demand for this resource by consumers.
She stated that her government would welcome proposals from Barbados requesting support in renewable energy, as well as other endeavours.
The High Commissioner explained that her country???s Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programme featured various components, including training in India of nominees from partner countries; feasibility studies and donations of equipment.
Barbados and India established diplomatic ties on November 30, 1966.
nekaelia.hutchinson@barbados.gov.bb