New Delhi, Jun 18 (KNN) A CII delegation will accompany Commerce Minister Anand Sharma during his visit to Russia to explore ways of expanding business activities.

“A high-profile CEOs delegation from Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) will accompany Minister of Commerce, Industry and Textiles Anand Sharma to the prestigious international conference St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) in St Petersburg, Russia,” said Confederation of Indian Industries in a press release.
The 25-member delegation is led by CII, President Kris Gopalakrishnan. 

On the sidelines of the SPIEF 2013, the India Russia CEOs Council, set up by both governments, will also meet to discuss ways to enhance private sector engagement, seek and address policy and business issues between the two countries and also to identify specific projects for collaboration.

India and Russia bilateral trade, though on the upswing, has been far below the potential. Aggregate trade has increased to USD 6.4 billion in 2012-13 from USD 5.4 billion in 2008-09. India exports stood at USD 2.3 billion and imports from Russia at USD 4.1 billion. The main export items are drugs and agricultural products, while imports include gems and jewellery, iron and steel, articles of nickel etc.

 The CII will host a reception to draw policy makers, businessmen, speakers from the SPIEF and expatriates for networking opportunity.

India is also expanding its economic activities with other European countries like Germany and Britain for stronger business ties.

Recently UK, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Vince Cable has visited India to encourage trade relations with two countries focussing on small industries. (KNN)