Friday, May 27 2005 21:47 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Berne: Suggesting a "win-win" formula for India and Switzerland, President A P J Abdul Kalam today (May 27, 2005) said that the two nations can come together in launching an international peace movement besides joining hands in economic areas to benefit each other.

Addressing the Federal Councillors at Salle Des Pas Perdus (Swiss Parliament), the President said that the flags of the two nations convey a message of eternal peace not only for their own countries but also for the entire world.

"It would be, therefore, appropriate for both our countries to launch an international peace movement," Kalam told the Councillors.

Referring to India's programme on poverty eradication, the President, who arrived in Berne, today morning from Geneva, said, "Our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is growing at more than six to seven per cent per annum. Whereas economists suggest that to uplift 260 million people below poverty line, our economy has to grow at the rate of 10 per cent per annum consistently for over a decade."

"Our industries are now expanding in several areas. I am confident that we can push ahead with double-digit growth. Indian businessperson can also come to Switzerland to invest in areas creating hi-tech employment," the President said, adding "We should aim at a win-win situation for us."

Terming religions in the world as enchanting islands, veritable oasis for the soul and the spirit, Kalam said but "they are islands nevertheless. How can we connect them so that the fragrance engulfs the whole universe?

"If we can connect all the islands with love compassion, in a garland, we will have a prosperous India and a prosperous world," Kalam said and added, "I feel Switzerland with its deep commitment to peace can play a greater role along with us and others."

About the youth of India, the President said, "About 54 per cent of our population was under 25 years. They will make India prosperous and peaceful nation. At the same time you (Switzerland) can look to them as partners in your developments as well."

He said that the young entrepreneurs would be willing to invest in Switzerland and create more high-tech employment besides benefiting themselves from the intellectual process of Swiss institutions, industries and people. "Let us look at our partnership in different ways." Kalam said.