A delegation of Italian embassy led by Antonio Armellini, Ambassador of Italy to India, is on a visit to the Chandigarh region to evaluate the opportunites of bilateral trade between the two countries and especially with Punjab. Italian embassy is keen to enter into a joint venture with the Punjab government in food processing sector. Two years back, during the Congress government in Punjab, Italian Government had shown keenness to implement a food processing project in Punjab. The project was about enhancing the yield of DUREM wheat in Punjab so that the same can be used for making pasta. “I see a great potential in this project. DUREM is grown only in Punjab and Mediterranean countries. A mission came here two years back, but could not take off. This time we may revive it. We may go in for joint ventures in some other sectors as well and are looking forward to give a technical push to the physical infrastructure here. Latest technical knowhow can really benefit the two countries. “ said Mr Armellini. Mr Armellini said that Punjabis had strong bonding with Italy because 80 to 90 per cent Indians settled in Italy was Punjabis. “Punjab could script a golden chapter in the history of international trade with mutual trade and exchange of technology transfer in the field of agriculture, agro-processing, technology and textile.” said Mr Armellini. At the same time, Italian embassy opened up a local consulate office at Chandigarh. Ranjit Malhotra was appointed as honorary consular correspondent for Punjab who would act as an out sourcing agency for visa. Punjab Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal who was present at the occassion, welcomed the visa counter in Chandigarh. “This would save thousands of our aspirants to immigrate Italy from the clutches of illegal travel agents.” said Mr Badal