The picturesque harbour park, with Bay of Bengal forming the backdrop, became the venue for dozens of MoUs and cold vibes between politicos. The three-day CII Partnership Summit 2018 began on Saturday in Vizag, Andhra Pradesh in which 2,500 Indian and foreign delegates were expected to attend.
At the inaugural session, AP Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu shared the dais with Union Minister for Commerce Suresh Prabhu and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu. Amidst growing friction between the NDA allies on the demand for special status to AP, the TDP and BJP leaders' statements showed contrasting approach.
In his keynote address, Suresh Prabhu praised Chandrababu Naidu for making AP the fastest growing state in the country despite serious challenges in its path of progress.
He said that the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Naidu were similar as both wanted to make the country vibrant and foster development.
“We stand to support AP,” he said.
The central minister’s friendly words did not make much difference to the TDP leaders who were in no mood to enjoy the camaraderie.
The chief minister spoke at length about his government’s performance and vision. In his 15-minute speech, Naidu made no reference to Modi and refrained from talking about the NDA government.
On the other hand, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu mentioned the CM and PM in one breath and spoke about cooperation between state and the Centre.
Outside the hall, Rajya Sabha MP of TDP, C.M. Ramesh was surrounded by media persons to talk about their differences with the BJP.
He squarely blamed the BJP for ignoring the needs of the state. He said that though they are trying their best to develop the state, they are not getting the required support from the BJP.
“They have absolute majority. What will happen even if we resign,” said the MP.
On day one, AP government signed 77 MoUs worth Rs 31, 546 crores which can create 98,291 jobs. Among them was an MoU with Google to setup wifi spots to provide internet connectivity to rural areas of the state.
A project to build a convention centre and a shopping mall by Lulu group in Vizag was also launched on this occasion.