Dear Reader,

Greetings. A period of six decades is a long as well as testing enough time span for even friendship. But India and Switzerland have proved that nations can have lasting friendship that could benefit both economically. The current issue of Indo-Swiss Business raises a toast to celebrate this spirit of friendship that is binding the two countries. Economic and commercial activities between India and Switzerland have intensified in the recent past, particularly after India initiated economic liberalization policies in 1991. The two-way trade between the two countries is expected to cross $3 billion by the end of 2007, which would represent an increase of nearly a billion dollars in just one year. The issue's cover story takes an in-depth look at the relations between India and Switzerland, in the field of economy, especially in the context of this country emerging as an economic power and a massive market of 300-million strong consumers with growing purchasing power. The reputation of the Swiss banking system is legendary. Its products are many and varied, the quality of its service impeccable. The most significant aspect of Swiss Banking is their commitment to confidentiality, as highlighted in a recent opinion poll survey. We carry a report. Dr. Philip Roth, Chief Executive Officer, the Swiss Bankers Association, believes that Switzerland has the capability to facilitate bigger volumes of private equity business, being a leading financial center with inbuilt incentives such as lower corporate and income taxes. We highlight Dr. Roth's address to delegates at a media seminar. Switzerland has also emerged as a major educational center, offering a variety of specialized courses as in the case of the University of Basel, where the focus is on Life Sciences and Culture. We carry a report. Switzerland is synonymous with education specializing in hospitality and tourism. SSTH - Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality - attracts students from across the globe and its graduation ceremonies are occasions for tears of joy as well as parting. The current issue takes a look at this year's event, besides covering a six-hour global culinary excursion open to the public on a sunny, cheerful day in May this year at the SSTH. The global hospitality industry is one of the world's fastest growing industries and Swiss education has been an important and contributing factor in this highly specialized business. We take a look at it. There is no dearth of Indian success stories these days, but it really calls for a stamp of quality for it to happen in Switzerland. Our report shows that Kamla Dials has done it. Any description of Switzerland as a holiday destination falls pretty short of the experience that its snow-capped mountain peaks and undulating, lush green valleys offer. We say that Switzerland is a dream destination not just for summer or winter, but for all seasons.
Wish you happy reading

Satya Swaroop
Managing Editor
satya@newmediacomm.biz