Manmohan Singh to seek German support for India-EU trade deal

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday said he will seek German support for early conclusion of a balanced trade and investment with the European Union (EU).

"I will seek Chancellor Merkel's support for an early conclusion of an India-EU broad-based trade and investment agreement," the prime minister said in his departure statement here ahead of his three-day visit to Berlin.

"I will also propose that Europe keeps its doors open to Indian investors and professionals," he added.  

The prime minister is visiting Germany on the invitation of Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Manmohan Singh said he was hopeful of signing a number of agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) in areas like infrastructure, manufacturing, science and technology, higher education, professional training, and clean and renewable energy.

"I intend to seek greater trade and investment ties with Germany as we continue to take steps to boost domestic investment, attract foreign investors, and spur the economy back to its long term growth potential of 8 percent," the prime minister said.