The visiting Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Technology of Slovenia, Radovan Žerjav has urged for cooperation between the two countries in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in the areas of energy and renewables, energy efficiency, automotive industry, logistics, ICT, metal processing, electronics, services and tourism.

“There is immense scope for cooperation between India and Slovenia in the field of MSMEs. Both the countries should explore the possibility of entering into a MoU for strengthening cooperation in the MSME sector. The MoU would provide a platform for both the sides to hold continuous and meaningful dialogues on issues concerning the MSME sector for the benefit of MSMEs in both the countries. The MSME Ministry has entered into MoU/Agreements with 16 other countries. Our experience is that such agreements have been helpful in furthering cooperation between MSMEs of both sides,” said the Indian Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, KH Muniyappa when the Slovenian delegation led by its Deputy Prime Minister called on him on Tuesday.

Slovenia is a member of the European Union and India-EU negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) is in the process. Many Indian MSMEs are familiar with Slovenian market on account of their participation in the annual International Trade Fair at Celje. National Small Industries Corporation, an Indian public sector undertaking has been regularly organizing MSME delegations to participate in the Celje International Trade Fair every year since 2009.

“NSIC and its counterpart organizations in Slovenia should facilitate the participation of MSMEs in fairs and exhibitions that are held in both the countries.