India, the voice of developing countries: Minister Goyal in Rome

Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal called India a "voice of developing countries" and said that today the country represents the global south.

Speaking at the Gala Dinner in Rome among the presence of Indian and Italian Business leaders, Goyal said that India as the voice of the less developed countries, has been at the forefront of not only providing a better life for our people but also contributing to a better future for people in other parts of the world.

"India today represents the global south, being the voice of the developing countries, the voice of the less developed countries, has been at the forefront of not only providing for a better life for our people but also contributing to a better future for people in other parts of the world, particularly in countries which have also been left behind in the development process," the Minister said.

India's Ambassador to Italy, Dr Neena Malhotra as well as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, Edmondo Cirielli were also present at the occasion.

Minister Goyal further spoke on connectivity at the event and highlighted how India offers an oasis of opportunity with 1.4 bn people aspiring for a better quality of life. He also added that India now has nearly 800 million internet users across the length and breadth of the country and that 4G penetration is throughout the nation.

The minister is currently on an official visit to France and Italy during which he would be accompanied by a delegation of top Indian CEOs.

(ANI)