AEP will herald big changes : Diplomats
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 04 2017:
Indian Embassador to Zimbabwe Masakui Rungsung has stated that the Government of India's Act East Policy would herald dramatic changes and it can prove to be a launch-pad for speedy economic development of Manipur .
Speaking to this reporter at the office of the Manipur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Classic Grande, Chingmeirong today, Masakui Rungsung said that the Act East Policy would certainly bring India closer to South East Asian countries apart from boosting the State's tourism industry particularly eco-tourism .
He said that a large number of tourists would visit Manipur if the law and order situation is conducive and transport infrastructure is good enough .
The State can earn a substantial amount of money if the State's organic produces, craft items, handloom products, medicinal plants and liquor brewed in Manipur are exported .
Even if liquor brewed in the State cannot be sold inside the State, the same can be exported, he said .
Indian Foreign Service officer Robert Shetkintong underscored the importance of imparting skill development trainings to the youth of Manipur .
Noting that Manipur has huge potential in the field of information technology, he claimed that Manipur can provide consultancy services in IT sector in view of the growing demands of the same service in South East Asian countries .
It would go a long way in boosting the State's economy if consumer goods including pharmaceutical products can be exported to South East Asian countries .
As Manipur and many South Asian countries share cultural similarities, the Act East Policy can certainly foster close economic and cultural ties .
Pointing out that Manipur would be the gateway for India's Act East Policy, Robert Shetkintong highlighted the need for the people of Manipur to be prepared to exploit the opportunity thrown up by the Act East Policy .
Indian Forest Service Nodal Officer Sanajaoba Khuraijam, MCCI vice-president Thokchom Budhabir, general secretary Radheshyam Oinam and RK Surjit were also present at the interaction programme.