Interview given by the Ambassador of India to Armenia H.E. Achal Kumar Malhotra to A1+
On January 26, 1950, the Indian constitution was put into force proclaiming India as a republic country.
Every year, on January 26, Indians in Armenia mark the Republic Day of India. Today they gathered outside the residence of Indian Ambassador to Armenia Achal Kumar Malhotra. Ambassador Malhotra read out the message of the Indian President.
Festive events will continue throughout the day.
Talking to A1+, Ambassador Malhotra said that democracy has overcome all challenges and hardships in India.
Mr. Ambassador, how will you assess Armenian-Indian relations?
I would say they are perfect. Armenia and India hold unanimous opinion on issues of bilateral interest. We uphold the tradition of reciprocal visits. Armenian Foreign Minister visited India in November 2010 and discussed a wide range of issues with his Indian counterpart, starting form regional to international issues.
In 2010, we commenced Yerevan-Delhi flights, which further contributed to tourism. With the Armenian Ministry of Economy, we organized a seminar on tourism that enabled tour operators of the two countries to reach agreement on numerous issues. As result, the number of Armenian tourists has increased in India over the last two months. The countries also continue implementing educational programs. In 2010, 35 Armenians studied in India in the framework of Technical and Economic Cooperation program.
Which are the priorities of the two countries in the spheres of economy and culture?
India has always expressed readiness to support Armenia in its endeavours. India is a reliable partner. India supports developing countries without preconditions. Priorities are determined by the receiving party. Armenia and India implemented two programs in 2010. We aim to implement another two programs in 2011. India will technically assist Armenia in the preparation for the 2011 census. To this effect, a group of specialists of Armenian National Statistical Service will leave for India in February. Restrictions on entry visa are likely to be lifted in the nearest future. The issue is under consideration. I hope that it will soon find a positive solution and contribute to the flow of Indian tourists to Armenia.
The countries have established a good tradition of organizing exhibition-sale of Indian goods in Armenia. However, for some unknown reasons, the exhibition set for autumn, 2010, was canceled. Does it mean that the countries encounter problems in economic cooperation?
Besides intergovernmental cooperation, the countries also cooperate with the private sector. The exhibition-sale is initiated by private entrepreneurs. Last time the exhibition was held in May 2010. It is not easy to organize a similar exhibition every six months. I think that another exhibition will be organized in Armenia this year. I am also hopeful that Armenian-Indian collaboration will continue intensively in different spheres.
Achal Kumar Malhotra wished the Armenian people peace, prosperity and happiness in the new decade.
Source: A1plus.am
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