As soon as the buisness in Germany was concluded, Rohan was on his second major foreign trip, part of a broader strategy to build India's global presence and secure trade agreements vital for the country's development.
Following the success of his first trip to Germany, Rohan was hopeful of this deal as well because Switzerland is a nation known for its economic stability, precision engineering, and strong global trade networks.
Switzerland was a key target for him, as its advanced machinery and expertise could provide the technological boost India needed to accelerate its industrialization.
As Rohan's plane touched down in Bern, the capital of Switzerland, he was greeted by Swiss officials and a small, enthusiastic crowd. The visit was highly anticipated, as it signaled the beginning of closer economic ties between the two nations.
Switzerland, recovering from the effects of World War II and eager to expand its markets, saw India as a promising partner with vast potential.
The day after his arrival, Rohan was invited to the Swiss Federal Palace, where he was to meet not only Hans Schaffner, the Swiss Secretary of Commerce, but also the Swiss Prime Minister, Philipp Etter.
The meeting was set in the ornate conference room of the palace, a symbol of Switzerland's rich history and tradition.
As Rohan entered the room, he was greeted by Etter, who extended a warm handshake. "Prime Minister Varma, it's an honor to welcome you to Switzerland. We have been watching India's progress with great interest, and we are excited about the possibilities of working together."
Rohan returned the handshake with a smile. "Thank you, Prime Minister Etter. The honor is mine. India is keen to build strong, lasting relationships with nations like Switzerland. We believe that through collaboration, we can achieve great things."
After exchanging pleasantries with Etter, Rohan turned to Hans Schaffner, who had been instrumental in preparing the groundwork for the discussions.
The two men had exchanged correspondence before the trip, but this was their first face-to-face meeting.
"Mr. Schaffner, it's a pleasure to finally meet you," Rohan said.
"The pleasure is mine, Prime Minister Varma," Schaffner replied. "We have a lot to discuss, and I am confident that today's talks will lead to a successful partnership."
With the introductions complete, Prime Minister Etter excused himself to allow the trade discussions to proceed. He assured Rohan that he would be kept informed of the progress and looked forward to formalizing the agreement later.
The talks began with Schaffner presenting Switzerland's perspective. "Prime Minister, Switzerland is eager to export a range of goods to India, particularly in areas where we believe we can contribute significantly to your industrialization efforts. We are well aware of India's need for advanced machinery, precision tools, and quality materials."
Schaffner handed over a detailed proposal, outlining the Swiss goods they were prepared to export to India over the next year.
Swiss Exports to India:
- Equipment for machine tool factories: 18 million Swiss Francs
- Railway coaches: 5 million Swiss Francs
- Other machinery: 22 million Swiss Francs
- Apparatus (including precision instruments and electrical meters): 3 million Swiss Francs
- Aluminum products (such as sheets, circles, and tea chest linings): 4 million Swiss Francs
- Watches and clocks: 15 million Swiss Francs
- Dyestuffs, textile chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other chemicals: 17 million Swiss Francs
- Textiles (including silk, artificial silk, cotton, and wool): 10 million Swiss Francs
- Miscellaneous items: 3 million Swiss Francs
Total: 97 million Swiss Francs
Rohan carefully reviewed the list, noting the range and value of the goods on offer. "This is indeed an impressive array, Mr. Schaffner. These are precisely the kinds of products that will help us build the infrastructure we need. The machinery and apparatus, in particular, will play a critical role in our factories and railways."
Schaffner nodded, pleased with Rohan's response. "We've taken great care to ensure that what we offer aligns with India's development goals. Switzerland prides itself on the quality of our goods, and we are committed to delivering what your industries need."
The conversation then turned to what India could offer in return. Rohan knew that while India's economy was still developing, it had a wealth of natural resources and agricultural products that were highly valued in global markets.
"Mr. Schaffner, Switzerland is a country that relies on imports for many of its raw materials," Rohan began. "India is prepared to provide you with a steady supply of these resources, which will support your industries and contribute to the growth of our trade relationship."
Indian Exports to Switzerland:
- 15,000 metric tons of groundnuts
- 5,000 metric tons of groundnut oil
- 4,000 metric tons of linseed
- 500 metric tons of hessians (burlap)
- 700 metric tons of coffee
- 1,000 metric tons of manganese ore
- Additional commodities:
- Jute manufactures
- Tea
- Manganese, mica, and other ores (such as Kyanite)
- Hides and skins
- Carpets
- Shellac, copal, glycerine
- Fibers and bristles
- Spices
- Essential oils
- Rubber goods
- Drugs and herbs
- Jewelry
- Tobacco
- Textiles (including raw silk)
- Chemicals (such as Sodium Bichromate)
- Soap
- Vegetable ghee (cooking oil)
- Handicrafts
- Matting (Jute and Coir)
- Opium
- Shells
- Wood
- Fruits
(You guys can write down the total amount cause my brain can't calculate here)
Schaffner reviewed the list, clearly impressed by the diversity of India's exports. "I am willing to go forward with this Prime minister. Your offer of coffee, tea, and spices will certainly be appreciated in our market, and the industrial inputs like manganese ore and jute will support our manufacturing sectors."
The discussions continued, with both sides working through the details of how the trade would be conducted.
They agreed that Switzerland would issue quota attributions and certificates for the export of their goods, while India would grant the necessary import licenses.
Both sides also committed to honoring any existing licenses from previous agreements, even if the new agreement resulted in payments exceeding the 97 million Swiss Francs limit.
Schaffner raised a crucial point. "Prime Minister, we've had a positive experience working with India in the past, and we want to ensure that this partnership remains strong. We propose that the agreement include a clause allowing for the continuation of current export licenses and quota certificates, ensuring that our businesses can fulfill their commitments without disruption."
Rohan considered this for a moment, then nodded. "That's a sensible approach, Mr. Schaffner. We want to maintain continuity in our trade relations. India agrees to this provision and will make the necessary arrangements to facilitate it."