Guwahati: Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday launched the Blue Valley Cluster in collaboration with the European Union to strengthen cooperation in flavours, fragrances, AYUSH and food processing sectors.
The initiative aims to create new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, investment and sustainable growth in Assam.
As part of the programme, the Assam Industrial Development Corporation and the Federation of European Business in India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the presence of the Chief Minister and EU Ambassador to India Herve Delphin.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Sarma said the Blue Valley Cluster would help build strong value chains connecting India and Europe while promoting innovation, market access and business opportunities. He said the initiative emerged from the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit and would help connect Assam’s natural resources with global markets.
The Chief Minister said Assam is emerging as a gateway between India and Southeast Asia and that the Blue Valley Cluster has the potential to place the state at the centre of India-Europe collaboration.
He also highlighted Assam’s industrial growth and ease of doing business, stating that the state has developed industrial infrastructure and created a favourable environment for investors.
Dr. Sarma said Assam is keen to expand cooperation with European countries in emerging sectors such as semiconductors, electronics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing to create employment opportunities for the youth.
EU Ambassador Herve Delphin, Ambassador of Belgium to India Didier Vanderhasselt, senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs, Assam Government representatives and delegates from European countries attended the programme.
Earlier, the Chief Minister held discussions with European diplomats and representatives on strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, innovation, education, culture, skill development, tea, energy and sustainable development.
