New Delhi, Dec. 10: The wave of economic liberalization and growth is literally sweeping across the globe. Aruba, a tiny south Caribbean island nation, is no exception.

The Prime Minister of Aruba, H E Nelson Oduber, today showcased the potential of his country and invited Indian businessmen to set up base there.

Speaking at a luncheon meet, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry, here on Monday, Oduber said, "Aruba can act as India's hub and gateway to Latin America and provide logistics for transport services We are ready to provide traffic right to Indian airlines. "

Highlighting the strategic location of the island nation, Oduber invited Indian airline companies to set up base in Aruba and gain in terms of easy connectivity to Latin American countries.

"The airline industry in India is growing expontially. It is expected that the Indian companies will place big orders for aircraft next year. Aruba has a well-developed financial system and mature institutions. Apart from providing a strategic hub to Indian airline companies, we can also take care of their financial needs, " Oduber said.

He also offered Indian companies certificate of origin on safeguard tariffs, Oduber said: "Aruba has free trade zones which offer ideal business climate. Businessmen can also save as we tax only 2% of profit. " Making a strong pitch to high-value, low-volume industries like pharmaceuticals and information technology, Mr Oduber said. "Companies from these sectors can capitalize from Aruba's strategic location and sound logistic infrastructure. "

The Prime Minister also invited tourists from India. He said his country has 8,000 hotel rooms with tourist inflow of around 1 lakh per year. The small island nation offers a wealth of natural resources and scintillating landscape.

With a population of around 1 lakh, Aruba has per capital income of $22,000. Aruba is an autonomous part of the kingdom of Netherlands.

Earlier, making welcome remarks, Dr Rama Mukherjee, Managing Director, ARA Healthcare Pvt Ltd, said: "The visit of Mr Oduber will take India-Aruba trade relations to new highs. " (ANI)