Reception in honour ofHis Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland

A networking reception on honour of His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland and his wife Mrs Kaye de Jersey was hosted by Trade and Investment Queensland on 1 October 2014 at The Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi.

This was an official visit by His Excellency to strengthen relationships between Queensland and key investors from the region, promoting Queensland ahead of the G20 meeting scheduled in November, and to recognise and commemorate Queensland’s significant contribution and sacrifice in the Anzac Centenary year.

In his Keynote Address, His Excellency said ‘Our two nations share many things in common: well entrenched democracy, and a commitment to the rule of law, being among our greatest shared assets’.

Talking about the various sectors where the two nations have collaborated and benefited immensely, His Excellency said ‘India is currently the third largest buyer of Queensland coal – which is our major export commodity – and India continues to be a major investor in the Queensland coal sector. In agriculture, Queensland has taken advantage of India’s growing counter-seasonal demand for fruit and vegetables, and over the past few years, India has become Queensland’s largest export market for fruit and vegetables, particularly chickpeas.’ His Excellency further stated ‘In education, India is Queensland’s second largest source market for international students enrolled in education and training institutions, and is also becoming increasingly important as a source market for international visitors.’

In her Remarks, Ms Neeta Boochra, President FLO said ‘India has been constantly endeavoring to increase its foot prints in the global arena. In line with this, Shri Narendra Modi, Honourable Prime Minister of India recently launched the ‘Make in India’ campaign to give the Indian economy global recognition. Some of the areas and sectors that business communities of both countries could synergise include – energy; pearls & gems; high grade coal for steel-making and mining technology and skills for the development of India’s mineral wealth’.

Earlier, HE Mr Patrick Suckling, High Commissioner of Australia to India delivered the Opening Remarks while Mr Parag Shirname, Trade & Investment Commissioner, Government of Queensland gave the Welcome Remarks.

The Reception was attended by a close group of 40 select young businessmen and women from sectors such as Mining, Education, Energy and Infrastructure.