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Shri Dayanidhi Maran, Minister of Communications & Information Technology, during his week-long tour to the European countries, discussed various issues with regard to the forthcoming World Summit on Information Society and Internet Governance with Ms Leena Luhtanen, Finnish Minister of Transport and Communications, yesterday evening. The two Ministers also discussed strengthening of bilateral cooperation in the strategic area of ICT. During the meeting, Mr. Antti Piippo, Chairman of the Board, Founder and Principal shareholder, Elcoteq Network Corporation and Mr. Veli Sundback, Senior Vice President, Member of the Group Executive Board, Nokia Corporation were also present along with senior officials from the Ministry of Communications and External Affairs, Finland Government.
Shri Maran also met Mr. Mauri Pekkarinen, Minister of Trade and Industry of Finland and shared how business and trade relations between the two countries could be strengthened for mutual benefit. Shri Maran invited the Finnish SMEs to collaborate with Indian companies to enhance their competitiveness and allayed any fears on account of perceived job losses due to transfer by BPOs. During his interaction with the Finnish media the Minister highlighted the strides made by India in the Information Technology & Communication sector and the vast opportunity available for the Finnish industry.
The Minister also had one-to-one meeting with Mr. Antti Piippo, Chairman of the Board, Founder and Principal shareholder, Elcoteq Network Corporation on the need to locate various ancillary units in India. The prospect of developing technological parks for this specific purpose was discussed. Mr. Antti Piippo assured the Minister that Elcoteq would endeavor to bring the various ancillary units to India. According to him, certain modifications in the provisions of SEZ and EHTP may be required to facilitate this process. Shri Maran also attended the dinner hosted by Mr. Pekka-Ala-Pietla, President, Nokia where he reviewed the progress of Nokia's plant at Chennai and the rollout of the GSM network in the northern region. Shri Maran stressed the need for the company to strengthen their R&D and Global Network management presence in India and consider the setting up of a Global Network Operating Centre.
NCJ/AMA-010705 Maran-Finland
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