The government would like French companies to help develop its fast-growing motorway network, minister for road transport Kamal Nath said in an interview with French daily Le Figaro published on Tuesday.
India's government, under pressure to ramp up the country's infrastructure to keep up with its rapid economic growth, has a goal to build 20 km (12 miles) of highway per day, or 7,000 km (4,350 miles) per year, Nath told Le Figaro. "France has an important network of roads and motorways and numerous French companies are renowned for their competence in this sector," he was quoted as saying. Nath was on a visit to France and was due to meet Economy Minister Christine Lagarde and Environment and Transport Minister Nathalie Kosciusko-Morizet. Asia's third-largest economy is spending USD 1.5 trillion on infrastructure over the 10 years to 2017 and wants to bring foreign investors into road projects aimed at reducing supply bottlenecks. Road construction firms in France include Bouygues, Eiffage and Vinci. "It is clear that France has a formidable know-how in the construction and maintenance of motorways, notably in toll roads," Nath said. "We strongly wish to forge a partnership where everyone is a winner, a win-win situation."Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
