THE Minister of State for Commerce, Mr Madhao Rao Scindia, met
Ms. Edmee Betancourt, the Minister of Commerce, Venezuela and reviewed the
overall bilateral trade relations. The relationship is in true sense a
complementary relationship as India's energy deficit can be tackled by
Venezuela, which in turn needs India's help in manufacturing and engineering
sectors.
Mr
Scindia also stressed the need to expedite finalisation of the Double Taxation
Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and Venezuela. For enhanced
relationship in the energy sector, Mr Scindia mentioned that Indian public
sector oil companies want to enter into agreements on a spot basis. ONGC Videsh
has already invested $ 350 million and intends to invest additional $500 million
in the San Cristobel oil field. In addition, ONGC Videsh with an Indian
consortium proposes to invest US$ 2.2 billion in the Carobobo project. GAIL
would like to explore opportunities in the natural gas value chain. BPCL is keen
to explore opportunities to export base oil to Venezuela and its marketing.
Engineers India Limited (EIL) would like to provide its design and engineering
services in the hydrocarbon sector.
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