The sides discussed issues on strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries. Mr. Khaydarov sought a collaborative mechanism for development of Sericulture and Silk industry in Uzbekistan. The Uzbek delegation had visited various establishments of Central Silk Board in and around Bangalore to study Indian Sericulture or Silk Industry.

Mr Khaydarov said that the Indian silk farmers were well trained and empowered to make large investments from cocoon farming to reeling and weaving. Uzbekistan also sought to study the Indian subsidies being provided for silk industry’ development.

In this regard, Mr. Khaydarov suggested that a delegation of farmers, agronomists and industrialists could visit India to study the best practices in the country. He also sought Indian investment in Uzbekistan in the textiles sector particularly in spinning and garmenting.

The Uzbek official invited the Indian industry to take advantage of cheap labour and other power in Uzbekistan. He stated that Uzbekistan’s strength in cotton, yarn and knitting segment and Indian investment in this sector could provide a good access to growing CIS market.

Thiru. Maran briefed the Uzbek delegation about the strength of Indian textile industry in general, and silk Industry particular, and stated that India has made considerable strides in production of various verities of silk i.e., Mulberry, Tassar, Muga and Eri produced in various areas of India and inquired about the suitability of climatic conditions in Uzbekistan for different verities of feed plants and silk worms.

Mr. Maran said that the collaboration could be worked out on a long term basis. India has successfully established a world class spinning industry largely driven by the technology upgradation funds scheme which was a considerable success. An Indian industry delegation could visit Uzbekistan to pursue investment options, he added.

Both sides discussed about the possibility of technical collaborations in the areas of Sericulture, including host plant cultivation, seed development and propagation, cocoon raring and post cocoon activities. Both sides agreed to set up a joint working group to take these proposals forward.

Mr. Khaydarov extended a warm and cordial welcome to Thiru. Maran to lead a delegation to Uzbekistan to carry the bilateral cooperation between two countries forward. Thiru. Maran accepted the invitation and said that he looked forward to visiting Uzbekistan in the coming months.