Bengaluru: Indian business tycoon, Dr Roy C.J. has been appointed as the Honorary Consul of the Slovak Republic, with jurisdiction of affairs in Karnataka and Kerala. In the presence of Lukas Parizek, State Secretary of Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic, Dr Roy will assume charge when the Consulate opens on September 27. He talks about his new responsibilities, trade and cultural tie-ups between the two countries.
As an honorary consul of the Slovak Republic, what are your responsibilities?
I will be looking after the Slovakian citizens in Karnataka and Kerala. Over 100 Slovakians reside in these states and can contact us in case of an emergency - medical care, for instance. Most Slovakians work in the manufacturing sector here and I will also see to improving trade between the two countries.
Is there any major MOU which you wish the two countries must sign?
Slovakia is seeking partnership in business, defence and agriculture: areas where they excel. India may want to strengthen relations even more by partnering with them in these sectors. We plan to take a delegation to Slovakia to take this forward. On September 27, a business delegation will come to Bengaluru to understand the market of Karnataka and Kerala. They will participate in Invest in Karnataka which will have more structured business possibilities.
How does Slovakia view Make in India and Digital India?
Slovakia is scouting for partners in the solar, agriculture and automotive sector. The other day, the ambassador of the Slovak Republic, His Excellency Zigmund Bertok, told me during an informal conversation that even a fruit like papaya can be exported from India as it stays fresh for several days. When we talk of Make in India we concentrate on manufacturing, but I can see great scope in agriculture too.
With you at the helm, can we expect the ease in the processing of visa for students?
Yes, the visa process can be eased. This would strengthen the relationship between the two countries. Student’s exchange programme can be one of the steps where students of both the countries can pursue their education in power and manufacturing sectors.
Given that there is hardly any Indian investment in Slovakia, what can be done to attract more Indian companies?
Recently, Tata Motors invested in the Slovak Republic to set up a new factory. Even Slovakia has started seriously looking at getting investments. Fortunately, we have a very pro-active ambassador in Zigmund Bertok, who is doing all he can to ensure that business investment in the Slovak Republic remains prominent.
