Czech PM to be Chief Guest at Vibrant Gujarat Summit

The 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors Summit (VGGS) is set to take place in Gandhinagar from January 10 to 12, 2024. The theme for this edition is “Gateway to the Future.” This biennial event serves as a crucial platform for global policymakers, diplomats, business leaders, and investors to foster collaborations, partnerships, and explore investment opportunities.

Distinguished Guests

The summit will witness the participation of several prominent global leaders, reinforcing India’s evolving diplomatic priorities. Czech Republic’s Prime Minister Petr Fiala, Timor-Leste’s President José Ramos-Horta, UAE’s President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Mozambique’s President Filipe Nyusi are expected to attend. The spotlight on PM Fiala’s visit is intensified due to the arrest of an Indian national, Nikhil Gupta, on the grounds of a US government request.

Diplomatic Talks

The arrest of Nikhil Gupta has added a diplomatic dimension to the summit, with India engaging in discussions with the Czech Republic regarding the matter. The Indian embassy in Prague has been granted diplomatic access to Mr. Gupta, and it is anticipated that the issue may find its way into discussions during PM Fiala’s visit to India.

Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations

As many as 28 countries and 14 organizations have confirmed their participation as partners in VGGS 2024. These partners, including the UAE, Czech Republic, Australia, Japan, and the UK, play a pivotal role in strengthening bilateral relations and contribute significantly to the success of the summit. The theme for this edition is ‘Gateway to the Future,’ emphasizing the exploration of emerging sectors such as semiconductors, green hydrogen, e-mobility, renewable energy, and FinTech.

Focus on Bilateral Relations

The presence of key leaders like President Al Nahyan of the UAE reflects the growing commercial partnership between the two nations. The UAE’s reported investment of $2 billion in building food parks in India, as part of the I2U2 agreement involving India, Israel, the USA, and the UAE, is expected to be a highlight. Gujarat is slated to be the first state to benefit from this investment.

Timor Leste and Southeast Asian Relations

The participation of Timor-Leste’s President signifies India’s diplomatic focus on Southeast Asia. This is evident from India’s decision to open a diplomatic mission in Timor Leste, announced during the ASEAN-India summit in September 2023. Minister of State for External Affairs Rajkumar Ranjan Singh’s subsequent visit to Timor Leste further underlines India’s commitment to fostering relations with the island nation.