Beijing: Expressing keenness to forge new synergies between trade circles in India and China, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) said on May 15 that it would do all it can to build a "new era" in bilateral trade and economic relations.

"FICCI is eminently placed to play a catalytic role to impart vigour and dynamism to India-China bilateral and commercial ties which is witnessing high growth in the wake of high-level political contacts," FICCI President R S Lodha said addressing the first 'India-China Economics and Trade Forum'.

"We are and we want to be seen as natural allies and would be happy to explore partnerships and alliances that augment mutual interest of our two business communities and great nations," he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Indian Ambassador to China, Shivshankar Menon, described the seminar as "a significant event" in the further development of Sino-India relations.

"The fact that the seminar is being held today, and is being attended by persons of such eminence, shows not only the potential of India-China economic relations, but also the fact that this potential is now appreciated by an ever larger circle of friends," said Menon.

Expressing satisfaction over the rapid growth in trade relations between the two countries, Menon pointed out that the two neighbouring nations were very far from realising the full potential of what they could do.

"With our talented peoples, large markets and the present stage of development, our two countries can certainly do much more together," he said.

PTI