'Women have a major role in global economy'

Mumbai, March 23 (IANS) South African Deputy Minister of Trade & Industry Elizabeth Thabethe, who is currently on a visit to India said here Friday that women had a major role to play in the global economy.

"Women empowerment is an issue very close to my heart. Women now have a major role in the global economy and that has been evident in India and South Africa. Today's workshop focuses on the same aspect which is what brings me here," Thabethe said at a session to promote entrepreneurship and professional excellence among women, organised jointly by the women's wing of FICCI and the Department of Trade & Industry of the Republic of South Africa.

"An entrepreneurial culture will help uplift the quality of life of women, including their family, community, and aid in the economic development of the country. The Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) & FLO (FICCI's women's wing) will continue to play a catalytic role in ensuring that women who commit to taking their roles in the economy by engaging in entrepreneurship activities get the necessary support that they require," she added.

The South African women's delegation was a part of the Investment and Trade Initiative (ITI), which was kick-started in Chennai, India March 20 and was attended by more than 100 businessmen from South Africa and India.

"We are honoured to receive the South African delegation in India to help us with our objective of women empowerment. FLO endeavours to empower women without compromising on their dignity and self-respect," said Sucheta Shah, chairperson of FLO's Mumbai chapter.