KUALA LUMPUR, March 26- The proposed low-cost Indian airline, AirAsia India, will open up more travel opportunities between Malaysia and India and bring closer the people of the two countries. International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed(Pic) said the Malaysian government was very pleased that the Indian authorities have approved the bid by Malaysian-based budget carrier, AirAsia, to launch a new airline in India through a joint venture with the Tata Sons and Telstra Tradeplace.
“I hope the airline will also lead to increased business and trade between the two countries,” he said in his speech at the Malaysia-India Business Council (MIBC) Conference 2013 here today.
The text of his speech was read out by the ministry’s secretary-general, Datuk Dr Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria. AirAsia will hold 49 per cent stake in AirAsia India, Tata Sons 30 per cent and property tycoon, Arun Bhatia, the remaining 21 per cent. Chennai-based AirAsia India is expected to be launched in June.
BERNAMA
