Midlands Engine in trade mission to India

Jason Wouhra, far left, embarking on the India trade mission with Andy Street and James Brokenshire

The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, James Brokenshire, has begun a three day visit to India to promote business and technology ties between the Midlands and India, especially the heavily industrialised region of Maharashtra.

One purpose of the visit is to reaffirm the Midlands – Maharashtra Technology Partnership, which is a regional element of the bigger UK – India Technology Partnership agreed between the UK Prime Minister, Theresa May and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi in April this year.

Through these partnerships, the UK and India have committed to develop technology partnerships through industry, government, science and research, and by fostering trade and investment opportunities between each country.

Commenting on his visit, Mr Brokenshire said:”The Midlands and Maharashtra are thriving tech hubs in their own right, and by bringing these two great regions together we are strengthening our technological and economic ties to the benefit of our people and businesses.”

“Whether it is manufacturing the latest car model, or sharing ground-breaking research, there is a lot to be gained and I am determined we make the most of the opportunities, particularly as we prepare to leave the European Union.”

The Secretary of State and his delegation – which includes the Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, and the Chair of the Midlands Engine partnership, Sir John Peace – will hold talks in New Delhi with the Shri Anant G Geete, the Minister for Heavy Industries and Public Sector Enterprises, as well as the Minister for Finance, Arun Jaitley.

The visit is seen a precursor to the forthcoming India – UK FutureTech Festival which will be held in December in Delhi. The Festival is being described as a ‘thought leadership’ summit which will bring together business, policy makers, venture capital, scientists and entrepreneurs in an attempt to drive trade, investment and partnerships between India and the UK.

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