Kochi, Jan 18: Prime Minister A B Vajpayee will inaugurate the high-profile global investors meet here today, being organised by the Kerala government to promote the state as an “investor-friendly” destination. Surpassing the expectations of the organisers of the two-day meet over 700 delegates, including 273 from 27 countries, are expected to participate. The UAE is sending a 54-member delegation. Against the target of 500 delegates, 775 persons have registered so far, sources at the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC),the nodal agency organising the event, said.

UAE minister Shaikh Rakadh Bin Salem Bin Rakadh, Sheikkh Ebrahim Bin Jamad Al Khalifa, a ruling family member of Bahrain, Malaysian minister, Seri Sami Vellu, are among those participating, the sources added. Australia, Canada, Japan, South Africa, UK are all sending their representatives. Prominent Indian delegates participating are Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Group, O S Kanwar, Apollo Tyres, Kiran Karnik, president Nasscom, Capt C P Krishnan Nair of Leela Group.

Besides, there would be about 850 special invitees, the sources added.

Bureau Report