International Trade Minister Holds Second Annual Dialogue with India's Minister of Commerce and Industry

Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, Ed Fast, met with Anand Sharma, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, in Delhi. The two ministers discussed a wide range of trade-related issues and agreed on the timing for the next round of negotiations on a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA). The third round of talks will take place in Delhi on December 13, 14 and 15, 2011. A timetable was set for further negotiations that will aim for conclusion in 2013. The ministers also reiterated their commitment to finalizing a foreign investment promotion and protection agreement (FIPA) between the two countries as soon as possible.