German envoy doesn't think Bengal clashes will impact trade

Consul General of Germany in Kolkata Michael Feiner Monday said the ongoing political clashes will not have any major negative impact on trade and investment in West Bengal.

There have been political disturbances in several districts of the state after the Lok Sabha elections.

Investors look for long-term stability and short term issues do not impact much, Feiner said on the sidelines of an interactive session organised by the Merchants' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI).

"Perception takes time to change," he added.

The envoy said the state government has been working on several fronts but it holds more potential.

West Bengal accounts for about 2 per cent of German FDI and German SMEs are active in the state.

An official of the West Bengal industry department said the proposed state design centre is at an advanced stage of being set up for cutting edge technologies.