‘Infra, research next step of Swiss investments’

Pune: Switzerland’s ambassador to India, Ralf Heckner, told TOI that while Swiss investments into India will continue in the manufacturing space, new frontiers would focus on infrastructure development, as well as research and innovation facilities, including a dedicated fund.
Heckner, along with Martin Maier, the Swiss consul-general in Mumbai, was in the city for discussions with trade bodies and institutions for bilateral trade opportunities and innovation partnerships with academic or dedicated research institutions.“Of the 300-odd Swiss companies in India, around 100 are in manufacturing, which will remain the backbone of Swiss investments in the country. We have a well-functioning dialogue with Indian stakeholders relating to collaboration in the development of railways,” he said.
“Infrastructure will be a key focus of investments. We are planning a visit by Swiss railway industry players for the same. A few companies also have R&D presence. We want to strengthen that for creating highly skilled jobs and developing newer products, such as low-carbon cement,” he added.