US Ambassador Nancy J Powell today said that American companies could invest in tea, industry, tourism, telecom and IT sectors in the North Eastern region and it was for them to take a decision on FDI in retail in India.
"It is for the business companies of the US to take the decision and investment could be made in the vibrant tea, industry, tourism, telecom and IT sectors in the North Eastern region," Powell said during an interaction with mediapersons here.
Stating that the government of Assam had shown a very positive attitude for investment, the US diplomat said there was lot of scope for trade possibilities.
Stating that she had a meeting with Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi last evening to explore possibilities of trade and commerce, Powell stressed on a realistic approach towards business interaction between the region and the US.
Praising the immense tourist potential of the NE region including world heritage site Kaziranga, Powell said the US was keen to have joint collaboration to develop the tourism sector.
"The tremendous bio diversity and the kinds of animals and birds available in the region are really fascinating and the US is interested to invest in this sector," she said.
Asked to comment on the border dispute with China on the Arunachal Pradesh sector, Powell said "We always consider the state as an integral part of India. We have good relations with China and have a lot investment in that country."
Asked to comment on allegations of human rights violation and the
presence of Armed Forces Special Power Act which has been opposed by several NE states, the US diplomat said "We are against any kind of human rights violation and the Government of India should sort it out with the N E governments."
On the insurgency problem prevailing in the region, Powell said "We do not think violence is a solution to any problem."
There were forums such as the SAARC which could deal with the matter of global terrorism among fellow countries and solve the problem, she said. Powell said "we are going to take a decision soon on FDI in India after the centre had okayed the proposal".