(Image source from: The Hindu)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with over 40 business leaders and American chief executive officers of top global companies, highlighting the measures taken by India to build USD 5 trillion economy.

American CEO’s, who are said to be optimistic about their companies’ future in India, lauded Narendra Modi government’s pro-growth policies and his focus on providing a productive business environment and ensure ease of doing business.  

PM Modi’s interaction with business leaders came immediately after he delivered the keynote address at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum.

The extensive agenda of the CEO Roundtable included harnessing investment opportunities in India and boosting commercial linkages between India and the United States, according to PM’s office.

Following the meeting, Brian Moynihan, the CEO of Bank of America said that it is always great to hear from the Prime Minister about his vision for India. The American banking giant has been in India for several years and has about 20,000 teammates.

Moynihan said they are open to help support the pro-growth agenda that says consistency in rules and regulations, ease of doing business, adding that the bank’s clients and customers tell it they are more and more interested so I think that bodes well for the country going forward.

Ben van Beurden, the CEO of Shell said Modi had a very strong and impassionate Come to India’ speech and his four D’s of democracy, demography, demand, and decisiveness are very powerful arguments to invest in India.

Coca Cola Chairman and CEO James Quincey said India is a big market for the beverage giant and it likes investing in the country. He said he thinks it’s not just an important market for them but it’s the 5th most important and they think it’s going to become the third most important, he said adding that Coca Cola is very excited about continuing to invest in the country and be in line with the growth agenda for the government.

IBM CEO Ginni Rometty described the meeting with Modi as outstanding and said the Indian Prime Minister is an authentic leader who genuinely listens to everyone’s input.

She said she went into the meeting optimistic about India and came out even more optimistic about the country. His firm intent to continue to help with the ease of doing business is a win-win for both India and IBM.

Marillyn Hewson, the CEO of Lockheed Martin said the meeting with Modi was excellent and he was more than willing to have a dialogue with the CEOs. She congratulated India on its pro-growth policies.

By Sowmya Sangam