GUWAHATI, June 9: The Assam government and the delegation of European Union (EU) on Tuesday launched the Blue Valley Cluster, a flagship initiative aimed at strengthening economic cooperation between Europe and Northeast India in the sectors of flavours, fragrances and AYUSH, while also facilitating investment, innovation and industrial collaboration.
The launch was held in the presence of Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, European Union ambassador to India, Hervé Delphin, secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs Sibi George, Belgium ambassador to India, Didier Vanderhasselt and representatives of the Federation of European Business in India (FEBI).
Simultaneously, the Assam chief minister held a meeting with a high-level delegation from the European Union (EU) to explore avenues for enhancing trade, investment and economic cooperation between Assam and European countries.
Several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed on the occasion, marking a significant step towards strengthening cooperation between Assam and the European Union in key sectors.
Addressing the media, chief minister Sarma said the initiative would benefit farmers and create new opportunities for Assam’s agricultural sector.
He described the project as the beginning of a larger partnership and expressed confidence that it would unlock substantial opportunities in the years ahead.
Speaking on the occasion, ambassador Delphin said the initiative seeks to establish an EU–Assam corridor for collaboration in investment, innovation and manufacturing across strategic value chains.
Delphin noted that the partnership would focus particularly on the flavours, fragrances and AYUSH sectors, leveraging Assam’s strengths and Europe’s expertise.
During the meeting, discussions centred on expanding trade ties and facilitating greater access for Assam’s locally manufactured and agricultural products in European markets.
The Assam government highlighted its efforts to promote the state’s products globally and attract greater foreign investment.
A joint media conference was later held, where the chief minister and members of the EU delegation outlined the investment potential and business opportunities emerging from closer cooperation between Assam, India and the European Union.
Products manufactured in Assam were also showcased before the visiting delegation, highlighting the state’s growing industrial and agricultural capabilities and its potential as a key partner for European businesses.
