Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Lulu Group chief Yusuff Ali share a lighter moment after the inauguration of Doha Bank's branch at Lulu Mall. Photo: E.V. SreekumarKochi: Inviting investments from Qatari government and the businessmen, Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan Saturday assured them all support and assistance in providing an investment friendly atmosphere.
He was speaking at Kerala-Qatar Business Meeting organized as part of the opening of a state-of-the-art branch of the Qatar-based Doha Bank here. "There are many sectors including tourism, traditional industries, agro-processing, IT, logistics and healthcare where we welcome foreign investments. I invite the government and the businessmen in Qatar, including each and every one of you to consider investing in our state," the chief minister said addressing dignitaries including prominent businessmen, and other distinguished guests from Qatar. Let me assure Kerala government's every support and assistance in providing our investors the prefect climate for growth," Vijayan said.
Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan with Lulu Group chief Yusuff Ali after the inauguration of Doha Bank's branch at Lulu Mall. Photo: E.V. SreekumarNoting that Kerala has quality infrastructure, he said his government was committed to developing it into a world class standards to make it easy for investments. "In this small state, we have four airports and a number of seaports contributing to the development of industry, trade and commerce. Kochi Seaport is one of the largest commercial ports in India," he added.
Recalling the historical relationship the Gulf countries share with India, Vijayan thanked Sheikh Thamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, for giving an opportunity to Indians, especially Keralites to live, work and earn their livelihood with utmost dignity and respect in Qatar.
Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan with Lulu Group chief Yusuff Ali after the inauguration of Doha Bank's branch at Lulu Mall. Photo: E.V. Sreekumar"Kerala has all along been the preferred trading destination of all Arab countries. Also, Kerala and Qatar share a very close and strong relationship which is growing day by day. Today, Qatar is home to almost 8 lakh Indians and among them the majority are Keralites," the CM noted. Earlier, he inaugurated the branch of Doha bank at Lulu Mall here.
(With agency inputs)
