A high-profile business delegation from the US state of Ohio began a five-city tour of New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore and Ahmedabad today, looking to explore foreign direct investment opportunities and increase exports to India.
The delegation, representing a cross-section of the Columbus Region’s leading industries will conclude its 12-day India trip in Ahmedabad, the “Sister City” of Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus and Ahmedabad finalised a “sister city” relationship in 2008, making Columbus Ahmedabad’s first sister city.
The relationship began as a business venture, but it soon fostered diplomatic ties as well, especially in light of the large and active Indian population in Columbus.
Members of the delegation include the City of Columbus, Columbus Sister Cities International, The Ohio State University, Jones Lang Lasalle, Kegler, Brown, Hill & Ritter, Bluemile Inc and SGI Global Business Advisors.
“This is the perfect time to take a Franklin County delegation to India,” said the Franklin County Commissioner, Mr John O’Grady.
The development mission will be an opportunity for the Franklin County delegation to explore foreign direct investment, export and business development opportunities for businesses in the sectors of advanced manufacturing, information technology, biosciences and advanced energy systems, said an official release.
“India’s growing infrastructure means trade and investment opportunities are available for Franklin County companies. India is an important market and there is great potential to create jobs and foreign investment from India for our local economy through these business relationships,” Mr O’Grady said.